If you ever have had a pet, especially as a child you most likely understand how they can change your life. It is a huge responsibility, but one many of us gladly shoulder for our furry friends! I would like to pose to you that our friends are more important to us than you first realize.
People seem to focus on how much of a burden our pets are on ourselves. Not to shy away from this topic, I have to admit that pets are a lot of work. There is the finally ability to have a pet. Not only to you need income to take care of yourself but for your friend that relies on you for everything from food to toys. There is the need to care for the pet. This goes beyond feeding and grooming. It includes playtime and exercise and love. Pets like dogs and cats are social creatures and will need attention just like we do to thrive. Keeping in the time and money needed to care for a pet I always come to the conclusion it is worth it to me. Now this might not be for everyone, but when I see those wagging tales and when I feel that small warm body curling up to sleep next to me, I can't help but love them.
Now we have most likely heard how much work a pet is already, but truthfully what have we heard about the benefits?
The Ontario Veterinary Medical Association list several sources for benefits of pet ownership. Such as children with animal companion present on medical visits tend to have lower heart rates and blood pressure. They also point out that there are most likely mental health benefits. A study with senior pet owners found that ninety percent found that their pet had positively impacted their health. They also found that seventy percent felt less stress because of their pet.
An article from Psychology Today was able to expand on this subject. They found several ways pets, particularly studies with dogs were able to reduce stress. They also said that people that might not have the best or working support system could benefit from bonding with a pet. Dogs, cats, and other animals are not just pets it would seem. They can be family too. The Pew Reseach Center found that eighty-five percent of dog owners felt their dog was a part of the family.
There have been mountains of research that show how owning a pet is great for your health. While these are helpful to prove the need of a pet, how do they really help? As a person that has depression and anxiety issues, I would like to expand on the benefits of a furry companion.
Pets are a constant companion. When you live far away or just life a mostly solitary lifestyle you find yourself lonely at times. A pet is more than just an app that reminds you are loved, or a text from a loved one,your pet most likely is an act of love. You see pets are not only physically there, but are able to be a companion. If that means licking away your tears or sitting next to you as you binge-watch a show it's an act of love to do these things with you, for you and your pet. You both care enough to be with each other.
Pet are able to get you moving. Pet are able to give you a reason to get up in the morning. The dog might need his food or morning walk. The cat might need her litter boxed cleaned. Just having the help to get started is enough for most days of the week.
They are a great way to meet people. If you have mental health issues, you may find it hard to make friends or talk to people in general. I have been told by many people that their pets just help them speak. They automatically have something to talk about that makes them comfortable and is an easy conversation for most people. Most likely people will want to talk to you about your pet!
Pets are a great addition to your family. I hope that if you can care for a pet that you get one. I know that they have helped my health greatly.
