Children’s relationships with their companion cats and dogs : delving into children’s views

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore and understand children’s conceptualisation of their relationships with companion animals. Five participants contributed to this study by sharing their views and experiences regarding their life and relationship with their canine or feline companion. Data was acquired using various methods employed within the Mosaic Approach. These consisted of interviews with parents, child observation and conferencing, use of photography, guided tours and map making as well as role play. The data collected from the different methods was collated together to form individual mosaics. Subsequently, the data was organised and analysed through the process of content analysis to identify meaning units from which themes were extracted. The identified themes include being and doing together, caring aspect, physical presence and knowledge. Children's accounts have demonstrated the complexity, diversity, and value of these relationships in their lives. The study has also shown that if children's voices are given significant consideration, it is possible to have a greater understanding of their perspectives on their own lives, as well as how they build relationships with companion animals and the importance of these ties. One major implication of this study is that children’s relationships with companion animals are significant in the here and now aspect of their lives and hence more awareness needs to be raised regarding the importance of enabling the presence of animals in children’s lives.