Yes, friends, roommates, family, etc. are great, but their relationship with you is nothing compared to the bond you get with a pet. There is a special love that comes with their fuzzy faces and furry tails. These are companions that will truly be with you from the best of times to the worst.
One of the biggest benefits of owning a pet is the amount of calm they bring to your life. Coming home and being greeted by a face that is excited and filed with happiness just because you walked through the door makes all of the stress and bad thoughts in the world disappear. Giving them pats and kisses will make you feel like you’re riding a unicorn over a rainbow. Even thinking about them while you are not with them can reduce your stress level.
Thoughts, pats and greetings do not compare to how great their cuddles are, though. Even cuddles with a romantic partner are not the same as cuddles from a cat or dog. They are little space heaters on cold nights, a shoulder to cry on on sad ones and bed hogs always (but who cares).
Don’t forget that a pet is going to love you no matter what. You can be fat, thin, ugly, pretty, dirty, whatever! Pets don’t care and they don’t judge. They just love you for who you are. And if you’re stinky, they’ll probably love you a little more. They have a thing for stink.
There is a great social aspect that comes along with owning a pet too. If you have a dog, you are going to meet a ton of people every time you take it out for a walk or to a dog park. Plus owning a pet makes for good conversation. Once you find another pet parent you will be instantly bonded. It proves to other people that you can be responsible. This will be most impressive to your parents and someone you’re trying to date.
The responsibility aspect of pet ownership is the most important to remember. A pet is an animal that is living and breathing, as well as has feelings and needs. By bringing a pet into your life, you are signing up to provide a safe, healthy and loving environment for that animal. It’s the same as agreeing to be responsible for a person. Don’t take on a pet that you aren’t able to properly care for. If you travel a lot or walk long hours, then a pet may not be best for you. Do not assume that you can go with a caged animal or a fish if this is your lifestyle. Those animals can be more work than you think.
A pet is going to change your life in fabulous ways. Remember that you are going to do the same for them. Only take on a pet if you are ready to give the same amount of unconditional love you are receiving. And always adopt, don’t shop!
