The concentration of a child can be easily and immediately led astray by the lure of animals. Even the most sincere attentions of a loving relative are usurped by the licks and squeals of some piglet or puppy. It is a natural reaction of children to trust any animal on earth more than man.
In their sympathies, children feel nearer animals than adults. They frolic with animals, caress them, share with them feelings that neither has words for. Has a child ever stroked any adult with the love they bestow upon a cat or a bunny? Has a child ever hugged any grownup with the ecstasy they feel when clasping a piglet or a puppy?
the Porcine Oracle
Additional information:
- Ecstasy – Neuroscience For Kids
- In celebration of children and animals – Moments of Connection, the movie
- How pets benefit child development