Having a pet is a staple of your childhood.
Many adults look back on their childhood pets with fondness and love. For
disabled children, this is no different. Many love to be around pets.
Though a reptile may seem like an unusual
choice for a disabled child, they can be the perfect companion for the right
child. Here are three reasons why you would choose a reptile.
Reptiles are low maintenance
Compared
with a cat or a dog, reptiles are low maintenance pets. They do not need daily
walking or feeding, and they do not need the regular grooming you see with
furry pets.
Though it
may seem complicated to set up their vivarium or terrarium correctly, once this
is completed they are easier to look after than your average pet. Fresh
drinking water (and bathing water, where appropriate) will need to be provided
every three days and feeding schedules will vary depending on the species you
have chosen.
Social Support
One of the
main advantages of acquiring a mammal is the social support they can provide
their owners with. Though it may seem unlikely, choose the right reptile and
you can find social support here too!
There is an
abundance of evidence discussing how pets can help to promote a happier
lifestyle for disabled children. Research indicates that having a pet can promote more
social behaviour from the child when playing with a pet over a toy. When
spending time around animals, researchers saw more social behaviours, such as
talking and petting the animals.
Bearded
Dragons make a great choice for teenagers who are looking for their first pet.
They are larger than a Gecko, so will need a larger enclosure, but more space
means more love and support for them.
Leopard and
Crested Geckos can be an excellent choice for a social pet. They are small, and so could live in a child’s bedroom, and
have relatively simple needs. Leopard Gecko’s especially are known to be very
social animals who thrive on handling.
Calming effects
Watching a
reptile go about their daily business in a terrarium is oddly calming. This can
have a similar effect on a disabled child.
When they
feel stressed, it may be beneficial for them to have a place they can go to
calm down. Sitting and watching a reptile bask or explore their environment can
be a fun way to pass time!
Equally,
spending time at the tank talking to their reptile can be equally soothing. Having
someone to listen when your child feels sad, mad or happy can be a blessing. Reptiles,
like all pets, are non-judgmental and are happy to spend time with you just listening.
Summary
Though it
may seem like an unusual choice, reptiles can provide emotional support. Not
conventionally cuddly, these non-judgmental animals can provide social support.
They are also relatively easy to look after, making them a great first pet for
those looking for a unique support animal.
Have you
ever had a reptile? What pets would you recommend? Let us know in the comments
below!
