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I don’t know that many people will disagree that having a pet adds something of real value to a child’s life.  Where they will disagree is what it is that has been added.

Some people will say that it’s simply the best opportunity for a child to acquire a sense of respect and caring for another living being.  This – hopefully is a lesson that will be carried through their lives.  I’m not convinced that that will always be the case- but I like the argument. How, after all, can anyone learn to love, respect and learn to care for something about which they are completely ignorant?

I think the naysayers would say – “take em to a zoo.”

Other people claim that “owning” a pet, (or being owned by one) is a great way to teach children about responsibility.  After all, if you want Rover to play with you on your terms, you’re going to need to take him for a walk in the rain on his terms.

Personally, I think that every reason you can forward for letting a child have a pet is probably a good one.  But what appeals to me the most is that I believe that at some point in every life, everyone should experience unconditional love.  And looking around me at all the things going on that are less than ideal,  it seems more and more likely that unconditional love is getting hard to find any other way.