Our fur siblings were always there for us. Our dogs were always ready to give us a hug, which has given us so much comfort on the days that we are feeling sad, angry, or afraid. We have always believed that developing one’s love for pets/animals and nature would affect the social and emotional skills of the person. As parents, that has been a goal: for our children to develop an outstanding empathy for all living things. My kids have such an amazing love and concern for animals, whether it is the ones in the wild, farm, or pet animals.