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When it comes to finding the right companion for a neurodivergent child, getting a puppy is often the perfect solution. A new pup can provide comfort and companionship when life may be challenging or difficult. From being there for comforting cuddles to teaching valuable lessons about responsibility and caretaking, puppies offer unique benefits beyond providing unconditional love.

These benefits include:

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1. Increased Self-Confidence:

Caring for a new puppy can help neurodivergent children develop greater self-confidence. In the face of taking care of another being, they may be inspired to take on new tasks and responsibilities that they would otherwise not have attempted. They can also learn how to problem solve in order to provide their pup with the best care possible, which can translate into feeling more capable and confident in various other areas of life.

2. Improved Social Skills:

As puppies need stimulation and attention from people, a pet can be beneficial when it comes to learning social skills such as communication and interacting with others. Having someone else depending on them helps build empathy in neurodivergent kids, teaching them patience and understanding toward other living creatures.

3. Stress Relief:

Puppies can provide an outlet for stress relief and relaxation, which is especially beneficial to neurodivergent children who often feel overwhelmed in large crowds or unfamiliar situations. Playing with a pup can help reduce levels of stress and anxiety and provide comfort on difficult days, helping kids learn how to effectively process their emotions.

4. Learning Responsibility:

Caring for a puppy provides numerous opportunities for kids to develop responsibility skills, such as providing food and water, cleaning up after them, and taking them out regularly for walks and playtime. They can do research to find out the best ways to take care of their dog, they can find out if broccoli is good for dogs over other types of vegetables and so on. The more they learn, the easier it will be to take care of their new friend, and this will teach them all about responsibility as they gather information learning new things. By gradually increasing the amount of care that’s needed over time, kids can practice important life skills while teaching their pup valuable lessons too.

5. Unconditional Love:

Puppies offer unconditional love and support to their owners. They never judge or demand anything from their owners, making them the perfect companion for neurodivergent children who often feel misunderstood or isolated in some capacity by society.

6. Exercise:

Although not always obvious at first, having a pup is one of the best ways to encourage children to get more exercise. Taking a pup out for regular walks, playing with them in the garden, or even just running around the house is sure to burn off some energy and help kids build up strength and stamina over time. Not only that, but it’s also a great way to explore nature and have fun at the same time! Be sure to reward your pup with https://www.puppytrainedright.com/site/old-dawg-treats for good behavior.

7. Improved Mental Health:

Last but not least, having a pup can prove immensely beneficial when it comes to mental health. Being responsible for another creature’s life can be an empowering experience that helps neurodivergent children learn how to manage their own emotions and develop positive coping strategies in difficult situations. In turn, this can lead to improved overall well-being and happiness in the long run – something we can all benefit from!

Puppy-proofing your home is essential for keeping your pet safe and sound. Taking proper precautions can help reduce the risk of incidents that may arise from common household items or objects scattered around the house.

Here are a few tips to make sure you have taken all necessary steps in puppy-proofing your home:

 

Photo by Helena Lopes on Unsplash

Kitchen:

Make sure all cleaning supplies and other items are stored in cabinets that are secure and out of reach. If a cabinet door doesn’t securely shut, make sure to use a hook-and-loop fastener to keep the door closed. Check for any small objects, such as paper clips or plastic bags, that could be hazardous if ingested.

Living Room:

Ensure all wires from lamps, television sets, computer cords, etc., are tucked away behind furniture where your puppy cannot access them. Move furniture with sharp corners away from pathways so as not to scratch or bruise your pup while playing around the house.

Bedroom:

Store jewelry, medications, and personal products in drawers or closets, and replace dresser knobs with those that are puppy-proof. Avoid electric blankets and heated water beds, as pups can easily overheat on these surfaces. 

Do not leave small objects such as coins or jewelry lying around, as these items may become a choking hazard if ingested. Make sure bed sheets and blankets are away from the sides of the bed so that your pup does not get tangled up in them while sleeping.

Bathroom:

Make sure all poisonous items such as bathroom cleaners, laundry detergents, and other supplies are stored in a cupboard, away from your pup. Also, place non-slip mats in the bathtub to prevent any slipping accidents while they bathe or play around the tub.

Outdoors/Yard:

Check for any potential hazards outside of your house, such as unsecured gates or objects left lying around that could cause injury. Trim back shrubs and limbs that could pose a risk of entanglement if your pup is running around in the yard. 

Also, make sure to pick up feces regularly to prevent any type of contamination or health hazard. Check for any holes or gaps in fences where your pup may escape. Make sure all tools, such as lawnmowers, shovels, and weed whackers, are stored away securely if you have a backyard. Install gates at the bottom of staircases to keep pups from running up or down steps unattended.

Overall it is important to keep an eye on your puppy’s surroundings at all times until you have taken all necessary steps to puppy-proof your home. Then, with a few adjustments and precautionary measures, you can ensure that your pup stays safe and sound while exploring the comforts of their new home.

In Closing

Finally, getting a puppy can provide numerous benefits for neurodivergent children who are looking for companionship and a sense of purpose. With patience, dedication, and plenty of TLC, these furry friends may just be the key to unlocking a happier and more fulfilling life. So why not consider getting your own pup today? You never know what kind of adventures await you both!

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Kori

Digital Product Creator at Kori at Home
Kori is a late diagnosed autistic/ADHD mom. She is currently located in Albany, NY where she is raising a neurodiverse family. Her older daughter is non-speaking autistic (and also has ADHD and Anxiety) and her youngest daughter is HSP/Gifted. A blogger, podcaster, writer, product creator, and coach; Kori shares autism family life- the highs, lows, messy, and real. Kori brings her own life experiences as an autistic woman combined with her adventures in momming to bring you the day-to-day of her life at home. Kori is on a mission to empower moms of autistic children to make informed parenting decisions with confidence and conviction.

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