Benefits of Having Pets

It happens more times than we like to admit. A hard day just seems like it might knock the wind out of you and you go home feeling drained, overwhelmed, and hopeless. The story ends there for some, but others have found a secret weapon for how to turn that frown upside down. 

Pets.

It seems silly, but scientists have proven over and over again that there are many benefits of having pets as a part of your home. Don’t believe us? Here is a list of ways pets benefit our lives. 

Emotional Support

For many, the story above ends with a quiet night alone with their less than satisfactory feelings. Although they may reach out to friends or family for a “pick-me-up,” this interaction can sometimes worsen the situation or be unattainable if no one is available. 

For pet owners; love, affection, and attention are never out of reach. The moment you’ve set yourself down on that evening couch – your pet is already there and ready to cheer you up. Whether it’s their head placed in your lap, a paw pushed nudging you to play, or the simple vision of something so cute and curled up on the couch. Pets bring us small, yet meaningful joy by doing nothing other than existing. 

Required Physical Activity

We all know we are supposed to be physically active throughout the day, but how many of us actually are? I mean, let’s face it. When you get out of bed in the morning or just get home from work the last thing you want is to move your body and get exercise. 

One passive benefit of having pets is physical activity throughout the day is no longer an option – it’s a requirement. Your dog needs to be walked, your cat needs to be played with, and at the bare minimum, you have to feed the fish and clean out its tank. All the additional movement helps to make you a healthier and happier human.

Sense of Purpose

Life can be hard. Especially when you feel like day in and day out you are just running in circles. You can become unmotivated and depressed. 

One of the incredible benefits of having pets is the sense of purpose they can bring to our lives. It can be very fulfilling to know there is an animal within your house that needs you. Suddenly going to work to make a paycheck seems worth it because you know that paycheck affords you food not only for yourself but also for your favorite non-human. 

Opportunity for Socialization

Making friends can be hard, especially as an adult. Without common interests, it can feel difficult to connect with another person. Luckily, having pets can be a great gateway to making friends as an adult. Have a dog? Take them to the dog park and chat with the other owners there! Proud cat parent? There are so many community boards on Facebook filled with people talking about their cats. Fish? Just walk into a pet store and ask for their aquatic specialist. BOOM! Now you have something to talk about and it just might lead to a great and lasting friendship. 

Are there any benefits of having pets that we missed? Let us know! 

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