Children with Speical Needs and Their Pets

What child doesn't love a pet.  The most wonderful thing about a pet is that it doesn't see the child with special needs as any different than any other child.  Kids and pet are natural companions.  For children with disabilities, pets can be an invaluable physical and/or emotional therapy.  Whether it is straightening muscles through horseback riding, feeling motivated to improve while swimming with dolphins or gaining confidence with the help and companionship of a service or therapy dog, kids with disabilities can benefit from many kinds of animals. Animals offer all children the chance to connect to another living being.  Imagine the precious child with special needs coming through the door and being greeted by the pet in their life.  The purring of a cat or the wagging of a dog's tail communicates much more than just "love."  It creates a warmth and value within the child faster than just about anything. It would probably be surpassed only by the warm, encouraging voice and embrace of the parent of that child.  The parent and pet can have a great influence on the child with special needs.