Pet owners have better physical health due to exercise with their pets. Children exposed to humane education programs display enhanced empathy for humans compared with children not exposed to such programs. Positive self-esteem of children is enhanced by owning a pet. Children's cognitive development can be enhanced by owning a pet. The presence of a dog during a child's physical examine decreases their stress.
Children owning pets are more involved in activities such as sports, hobbies, clubs or chores.