This episode is for anybody juggling the duties of being a parent to human children and fur children at the same time, for my double moms and double dads out there! If you're soon-to be a double parent or even a pet mom or dad who has nieces, nephews, or other kids in your life, then this is for you too. Because today's episode is all about instilling and cultivating respect for animals in children. 

I explain why I think developing a love for animals in our kids is one of the most important gifts we can give them and I provide some tips and pointers to help you on that journey, such as how to be flexible when you bring an animal into your home, how to stay committed and stick it out through the challenging times, and how to create a safe home environment for both pets and kids along the way. In the end, raising young ones who are aware, compassionate, and grateful will help them grow into the very people this world needs.  

Then last but not least, you’ll hear from my favorite guests ever - my kids! The girls hop on to share about the animals who have changed them and also tell you about some of the animals they wish to have in our home. Yes, it's sort of controlled chaos, and yes, love can be hard sometimes. But it's always worth it, and so are you.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.

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Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!

Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

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