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Caring for a pet is a big responsibility, however, your furry friend will always reward you with endless love and affection and mental health.
Taking care of a pet can be a lot of work. Whether it’s cleaning up or regularly feeding them, you can occasionally get really exhausted.
However, it’s important to remember that there are a myriad of ways that your pet actually takes care of you.
Check out these scientifically-backed benefits of owning a pet. If you are contemplating getting one, this guide can illuminate the physical and mental perks of being a pet owner.
Pets Are Great For Stress Relief
We’ve all been there. After a long day packed with tasks and deadlines, you feel so overwhelmed that you don’t know what to do.
Mental Health Benefits of Having a Pet
Stress is a very real issue that impacts millions of Americans. Studies show that interacting with a pet can lead to increased production of dopamine and serotonin — two chemicals that assist with mitigating the symptoms of stress and anxiety.
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So, next time you have one of those nonstop days, spend some extra time with your pet to alleviate your woes.
They Can Help You Have A More Positive Outlook On Life
According to scientific research, pet owners have better mental health and a more positive outlook on life.
With a positive mindset, you can see the world differently. Regardless of what happens, you tend to see the cup half full. Your positive mindset can trickle into other aspects of your life.
For instance, when you’re happy, you can subsequently make your friends also feel happy.
You can have a whole network of people who are content with their life and helping one another when the going gets tough.
Improves Your Physical Health
Having a pet companion has a myriad of physical health benefits. For instance, studies have shown that being a pet owner is associated with lower blood pressure, decreased cholesterol, and reduced levels of triglyceride.
These factors contribute to better overall cardiovascular health, and subsequently, fewer heart attacks.
Physical and mental health are inherently intertwined. Therefore, what makes you physically more healthy has a likelihood of also boosting your mental health. And on the other hand, improving your mental health can decrease your likelihood of negative physical symptoms.
For example, heart disease has been linked to anxiety, depression, and isolation.
Pets Can Give Your Life Some Much-Needed Structure
During transitional moments in our life, it can be difficult to get a semblance of control. Whether you just went through a breakup, recently left a job, or are still getting acquainted in a new city, you may feel like everything is a little chaotic.
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During these times of duress, it can be helpful to find something that gives your life some much-needed structure. According to experts, having structure can improve your sleep quality and lower your stress levels.
Having a pet gives you structure in these specific ways:
- Feeding: No matter what, you have to feed your pet everyday! While some pets get fed twice a day, some prefer to eat once in the morning or night.
- Playing: Your pet needs regular exercise. If you have a dog, you should be taking it out for a walk at least twice a day.
- Cleaning Up: Pets can get a little messy. But on the positive side, regularly cleaning up after it can also get you to take care of your own space more. Cleaning can give you a sense of control and make you feel calmer.
- Getting Supplies: You need to stay on top of your pet’s food and toys. These errands can also push you to knock a few things off your own to-do list.
Though sticking to a routine could help alleviate your anxiety and depression, you may need to talk to someone to come up with strategies on how to manage these issues.
If you notice that anxiety or dealing with depression become an issue, seek professional help by seeing an online therapist or an online psychiatrist.
Pets Can Teach You The Things You Need For Great Relationships
Taking care of a pet isn’t easy. Sometimes they get on your nerves and as we mentioned, it can be a ton of work.
However, having a pet can increase your empathy for other people and show you how to be nurturing, patient, and careful.
To be in a good relationship, you need to be trusting and caring. In many ways, your pet is helping you be more open-minded to others’ quirks and practice what it means to let unconditional love into your life.
Pets Can Help You Make More Friends
Social isolation can lead to sleeping less, experiencing more stress, and bad eating habits. As you get older, it can become harder to make new friends.
And now with so many workplaces going remote, it’s more difficult to find friends at your job.
However, having a pet can help you get out of your shell and meet new people. Here are a few ways having a pet can lead to making new friends:
- Events: Go on social media and see if there’s a dog owner event at your local park. It can be a great opportunity to meet some new people in your neighborhood.
- Social Media: When you post your dog or cat on your social media, there’s always a chance for another pet owner to reach out.
- Conversation Starter: Having a pet can give you something really easy to talk about. When you’re meeting someone new and have hit an awkward lull of silence, just bring up your pet!
- Social Opportunities: You never know where and when you will meet a lifelong friend. Pets attract people! So, next time you’re at the vet or out walking your dog, strike up a conversation with someone who greets you and your four-legged companion.
Conclusion
Our pets love us unconditionally. When we are going through a tough time, they are there for us no matter what and help us see the brighter side of life.
Although taking care of a pet can be a big responsibility, it’s totally worth it. The lessons you learn from being a pet owner can help you become a better partner, sibling, and friend.
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