As a kid, I can remember always having a pet growing up. Dogs and cats of all kinds. My favorite dog was a Pug called “Nina” after the song, “Nina, Pretty Ballerina” From the group ABBA. I loved that dog all the way up until I got married and then, sadly, we had to put her down due to her epilepsy. I was heartbroken but also excited for my upcoming wedding. There were always kittens in the house, too, and my older sister, Jeannie, would often be the one to take care of them. I had no idea, until I was older, that she was actually allergic to cats.
What I also didn’t realize is how good it was to have a pet while growing up. I couldn’t wait to get home from school to see them. One, in particular, a cat named Squeaky, was my favorite. She would sit on my homework papers and curl right up. If I was sad, I could always go to one of my pets. They never questioned or complained but quietly sat with me and let me cry and hold them.
Now, as an adult, I see how our two cats are beneficial for our own family. When my husband was in pain prior to his back surgery he had to lay on the floor and work at his computer. Our sweet kitty, Cherry, stayed by his side—knowing something was wrong. She was a great comfort to Mike.
I discovered 6 wonderful reasons as to why you might want to consider having a pet of your own:
If you own a dog you will likely be out and about walking, hiking, camping and even snowshoeing! Dog owners walk more and have lower blood pressure than people who don’t have dogs. Those who have survived heart attacks or those with abnormal heart rhythms who own dogs are shown to live longer than those who do not according to studies.
Whenever you sit and pet your dog or cat it feels good, right? Did you know it can actually lower your blood pressure, help your body literally release a relaxation hormone and it helps to cut down on levels of stress associated with the stress hormone. Plus, it also soothes your pet, of course!
Dogs will especially help you connect with other people. Often times, I find myself asking an owner if I can pet their dog while out on a walk. They rarely refuse such a question. It’s so nice to chat and ask the owner about their dog. They’re always happy to talk about their pet.
Those who own pets are generally happier people, more trusting and obviously less lonely than those who don’t have any pets. They also visit the doctor less often for minor problems. Pets give us a sense of belonging. They love us unconditionally.
Some studies have shown that babies who are raised in families with pets are less susceptible to the effects of allergies and asthma. One study even found that babies who live around dogs or cats have less colds and ear infections during their first year than those who do not have pets
Pets are a healing and therapeutic resource for children with autism, especially in the classroom. With a pet around, such as a dog, the children feel more accepted, and, as though they can understand each other with a dog around.
At a local elementary school near me, there is a golden retriever who is there every day to help the children with special needs. He is not only a therapy dog and a pet, but he is a working dog too. He can detect seizures and warn of danger.
For more information about the benefits of owning a pet you can ask around and talk to your friends, co-workers, mentors, and visit an animal shelter near you. Do your research and consider adopting a pet today.
