Mabel the Rescue Dog

Encourage Dog Lovers to Adopt 💕

4 min read (Articles narrated by Mabel)

Molly may not be a parent to any humans, but she knows that parents can be very influential to their kids. Of course, there are lots of opinions parents can have that may affect their child’s views of the world, but the one Molly wanted me to talk about is (as usual) dogs!

Most kids love dogs. That’s no secret. But over the years, Molly has learned that there’s a difference between the way most people love dogs verses the way she does. Most people just love the cuteness of dogs and don’t think much deeper than that while Molly is very focused on helping dogs in need and finding a way to make life better for as many dogs as possible. One of the reasons she has this passion for rescue dogs is because of her parents.

How One Event Created a Passion

When Molly was a kid, she always wanted a dog. She didn’t know anything about where dogs come from, so she would’ve been happy with any dog her parents gave her. But instead of surprising her with a puppy like many families do, her parents decided to pick out a rescue dog as a family. That’s how Molly ended up falling in love with a puppy mill survivor named Zoe.

12-year-old Molly with Zoe

That experience taught her the importance of making sure everyone in the family is prepared before getting a dog. It also taught her that not all dogs come from nice places, so adopting a rescue dog was the best way to go. That one event is likely what led her to being so passionate about dogs today. She writes about rescue dogs for a living and fosters dogs all because her parents showed her a responsible way to get a dog.

Molly’s parents aren’t crazy about dogs like she is. They weren’t super educated about getting a dog either, but they knew that getting a dog is a big decision. They also didn’t see why they should have someone breed more puppies for their daughter when there are already so many dogs looking for homes. At the time, they probably had no idea how much that common sense would affect Molly, but it’s a mindset I wish more humans had.

If Molly’s parents hadn’t taken those approaches when getting her a dog, her life could’ve turned out very differently. But I love how passionate my human is about helping dogs, and it’s a big part of who she is. So, I want this post to remind parents that getting a dog is a big part of a kid’s life, so please go about it in a responsible way.

Teaching Children About Dogs

Many children beg for dogs, but it’s important not to surprise them with a puppy or bring a dog home if you’re not ready. If you’re unsure how to teach your kids about dogs, take some time to do research first. Learn about the different options for where to get a dog and figure out how to involve the whole family. What you tell your children about the pet industry could affect their attitude toward animals in the future.

I’m not saying every kid will become obsessed with rescue dogs just because you adopt a dog in need. But teaching kids about rescue dogs and responsible pet ownership can have many positive effects even if dogs don’t become a focal point of your child’s life. Caring for dogs in need can help give kids empathy and a sense of passion. It can be an opportunity for them to have a strong opinion about something that can benefit the world. Humans who rescue dogs instead of buy them may grow up to be kinder and more empathetic. It’s never a guarantee, but it can’t hurt to show them that there are many dogs out there that need their support.

So, if you’re thinking about adding a dog to your family, don’t rush it. Make sure the whole family is involved so your kids can learn more about dogs beyond just how cute they are. You never know how your opinions of animals could shape your child’s life.

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2 thoughts on “Parents’ Opinions on Animals Can Shape a Child’s Life

  1. I agree. And if I may ask people to do your homework before choosing a particular dog. Teach children to be respectful around us. We cannot speak verbally but we can speak with our bodies and eyes. If we are rescued it is often true that our circumstances are unknown. We may have had a wonderful life with a sad event causing us to need rehoming. Equally we could have had an awful traumatic semi-existence which has left us with different psychological difficulties. If we are given space and time to find our paws in a new environment this allows us to be comfortable. If we are crowded, played with, poked and prodded (even sat on my small children) this may trigger an unwelcome, and frankly dangerous, reaction for which we are likely to be blamed.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Yes, this is very important too, thank you for this reminder! Kids need to be taught to be gentle and respectful a dog’s boundaries, even if it’s a dog they know well.

      Liked by 1 person

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