Little Boy Who Loves Dogs Feed The Strays In His Neighborhood Using His Own Allowance And Eventually Started A No-Kill Animal Shelter
It's no secret that humans and dogs share a very special bond with each other. Despite this love, some dogs still find themselves in the unfortunate situation of being abandoned with no one to care for them.
This is how Ken, a 9-year-old kid from Davao City, Philippines started his advocacy for abandoned animals. Ken's story was initially shared by his father in one Reddit forum.
Ken's dad started to notice that his son went out early in the morning with a backpack full of canned food almost every day. Curious about his son's actions, the dad decided to tag along and was amazed by what he discovered.
Unknown to his parents, 9-year-old Ken has been feeding a family of stray dogs in their neighborhood! Although initially disgusted by the unkempt appearance of the strays, Ken's kind actions changed his father's mind about helping the poor dogs.
The dad was moved by his son's philanthropy and shared his pictures on Reddit. Kind internet strangers kept asking the dad how they can help Ken in his cause.
Eventually, the father set up a website for his son's charitable efforts. Animal lovers from all over the world donated to help care for the strays.
A lot of people took notice and Ken was able to raise money and fulfill his dream of starting a no-kill animal shelter. With all donations, they started a non-profit organization called The Happy Animals Club!
On the photo is our young advocate, Ken with his new found friends.
Ken with the stray dogs he named, Blackie, Brownie, and White Puppy.
The street dogs badly needed food and medical help.
The Impact of Kindness on Child Development
Research from developmental psychology reveals that engaging in altruistic behaviors, like helping animals, can significantly enhance a child's emotional and social development.
Dr. Nancy Eisenberg from Arizona State University has shown that children who participate in prosocial activities, such as caring for animals, develop increased empathy and social skills.
This kind of engagement not only fosters compassion but also helps children learn the value of responsibility and community involvement, laying a foundation for healthy relationships in the future.
He really loves his animal friends even from a young age!
Here's Ken bonding with White Puppy!
The tiny puppy couldn't stop showing his gratefulness towards Ken.
Moreover, studies indicate that children who exhibit kindness and empathy often report higher self-esteem and lower levels of anxiety, suggesting that altruism is beneficial not just for the recipients but also for the givers.
In fact, research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology highlights that children who engage in helping behaviors are more likely to develop positive peer relationships.
The poor dog's face is telling of the suffering it experienced while living on the street.
The Happy Animals Club started as a small kennel for the three dogs...
... which eventually evolved into an entire lot dedicated for the dog's care!
They raised $35,000 from the donations they received. The money allowed them to purchase a property with two large pens for animals, two apartments, and an annex.
Building a Sense of Community
The establishment of a no-kill animal shelter by a young child can serve as a powerful example of community building, which is crucial for social cohesion.
According to social psychology, fostering a sense of belonging and community can significantly enhance individual well-being.
When children like this boy take initiative in their communities, they not only help others but also create a network of support that can promote collective action and resilience.
Ken's Happy Animals Club is the first no-kill animal pound in Southern Philippines.
According to the young advocate, they don't cage their rescues unless the dogs are not acclimated to other animals.
They are free to roam the property whenever they want. The shelter is not only for dogs anymore, Ken also houses cats, rabbits, and rats!
Here is Ken with the original trio. Blackie, Brownie, and White Puppy look so much healthier after receiving proper care!
From a behavioral perspective, engaging in activities that help others can reinforce positive behaviors through social approval and recognition.
Research shows that when children receive praise for their altruistic actions, it encourages them to continue such behaviors in the future, creating a virtuous cycle of kindness.
This aligns with the principles of positive reinforcement in behavioral psychology, where rewarding desirable behavior leads to its repetition.
Year's later, Ken is all grown up but he is still going strong with his charitable efforts.
He participated in a bake sale. Ken sold doggy cookies and the profits all went to his charity!
Here you can watch 9-year-old Ken when he was just starting the Happy Animals Club:
It's easy to proclaim yourself to be an animal lover. However, it's a lot harder to show true compassion to animals you encounter who are in very dire situations.
Ken's kind heart and his family's support show what people can do to positively impact the unfortunate situation of our four-legged friends. It's an amazing story that managed to touch the lives of strangers all across the globe.
Ken and his family wouldn't have been able to help as many stray dogs as they did without the help of loving internet strangers. We only wish the best for Ken and all the animals under his care!
Emotional Resilience Through Compassion
Compassionate acts can contribute to emotional resilience in children, equipping them with tools to navigate life's challenges.
According to experts in developmental psychology, children who practice empathy and kindness develop better coping strategies and emotional regulation skills.
These skills are essential as they transition into adolescence and adulthood, where emotional intelligence plays a critical role in personal and professional success.
Expert Opinion
This behavior reflects a strong sense of empathy and social responsibility, which are crucial components of healthy psychological development.
Engaging in acts of kindness at such a young age can foster resilience and emotional intelligence, preparing children to navigate complex social landscapes as they grow.
Analysis & Alternative Approaches
Overall, the psychological principles surrounding altruism and community engagement highlight the importance of nurturing kindness in children.
Research confirms that fostering these traits not only benefits the community but also supports the emotional and social development of the child.
Ultimately, teaching children the value of helping others can lead to a more compassionate society.
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