The aim of this paper is to explore the key roles that pets play in the development of children's empathy. Pets are an important part of a child's life, influencing their overall development, particularly the development of empathy—the ability to recognize and understand the emotions of others and to respond in ways that are appropriate to those emotions. Through interaction with animals, children learn to care for other living beings, which fosters the development of compassion, empathy, patience, and responsibility. This interaction also positively impacts children's social behavior by reducing aggressive behavior and promoting the development of skills such as cooperation, sharing, and teamwork. The presence of animals can provide children with a sense of security and support, further encouraging the development of emotional stability and empathy. The paper analyzes how different types of pets can contribute to these processes and explores how these positive changes manifest in children's everyday interactions with peers and adults. Special attention will be given to examining how the presence of animals in the home environment shapes a child's future relationships and social skills, as well as how animals can serve as catalysts for children's emotional and social development in general. The paper will also include practical advice for parents and on how to maximize the potential of animals in fostering empathy in children.