Giving Compass' Take:

• Mat Coulton details the importance of canine companionship, especially when it comes to bringing kids a better understanding of the natural world.

• Pets can help us all connect with ourselves and our environment more. But one of the more interesting takeaways here is that taking care of dogs might help future generations be better stewards of our planet, while encouraging more empathy.

• Learn about connecting seniors with pets. 

We value their companionship, loyalty and love. And research tells us conclusively that there are many human health benefits stemming from our relationships with domestic dogs, including benefits to emotional and psychological development in young people. But dogs can also play a role in helping children connect back to nature.

Empathy for animals can translate into an emotional investment in the well-being of the natural world.

By inspiring empathy and curiosity, teaching an understanding of the cycle of life, and possibly even helping children see themselves as positive agents of change, dogs can be a bridge to the natural world, and even help foster a sense of stewardship in relation to nature.

Here are the things they can help teach:

  1. Empathy with other living things
  2. Curiosity about the natural world
  3. Understanding the cycle of life
  4. Teaching environmental stewardship

Read more about how dogs can connect children with nature by Mat Coulton at Children & Nature Network.