Our Mascot Chewie
We have always felt it was important for children to interface with pets just for the pure joy of it. However, in 2003 a research study found for a newborn or for a child who has not developed allergies, exposure to a dog or to multiple pets appears to decrease the risk of allergies, eczema, and perhaps even asthma. So not only are pets fun but they can also be an aid to better health for young children.
Last year we decided to choose a dog that was considered the “optimum” dog for young children. After literally months of research we determined that dog was an English Mastiff. (Our Vet has an English Mastiff and he and his wife have an infant and a 2 ½ year old. He said this was the only dog he could absolutely trust with his children). The English Mastiff is one of the biggest dogs out there. Not quite as tall as a Great Dane, but heavier. But pound for pound the temperament of the English Mastiff is nothing but gentle. English Mastiffs love children…they move slowly and carefully and would never hurt a child even a child might be hurting them. Usually the Mastiff simply gets up and goes somewhere else.
Chewie is a very well-behaved dog because in part to Dan Atkinson, Chewie’s “personal trainer” who worked with him weekly. If you would like to know more about Dan and his training you may link to www.kindtocanines.com.
Sometimes children are reluctant to leave your house in the morning to come to child care. Chewie is a great help with the morning transition because the first thing the children do when they come in is to give Chewie a treat. He sits and waits patiently to receive his treat then the children go off to breakfast.
