Did you know that pets can make you happy? It?s true; pet owners are happier than the general population and getting a pet can increase your overall happiness many times over.
Why? Well, it turns out there are many reasons dogs (as well as cats and other animals) really are man?s best friend.
Companionship
Pets provide companionship, which reduces loneliness and improves social interaction. Pet owners feel more connected and like they have more social support than non-pet owners. They score lower on tests for anxiety and depression too. Caring for a pet releases those much-needed endorphins that make you feel good.
Stress Reduction
Having a pet lowers your stress levels. It decreases immediate and long-term blood pressure, leading to improved health outcomes. Even petting an animal that?s not yours can make you feel better; this is why therapy animals are becoming so popular in hospitals, nursing homes, and other places where people are stressed or hurting.
Responsibility Equals Increased Self-Esteem
Meeting the challenge of caring for a pet is a great self-esteem enhancer. Pets are a lot of responsibility, after all. You have to feed them, take care of them, clean up after them, exercise them, and so forth.
Social Bonds Increase
Pet owners report having more social ties than non-pet owners, and much of the difference is associated with their pets. Many pet owners join groups dedicated to their type of pet and/or meet people in the community by taking their pets out. Walking a dog is a great way to meet new people, for example.
It Has to be the Right Pet
All of these benefits are great, but one word of caution: it must be the right pet for you. The wrong pet can make you as miserable as the right pet can make you happy. There are dozens of kinds of pets in the world, from the ubiquitous cats and dogs to the less common birds and small mammals.
Carefully consider what kind of animals you like, can bond with, and have the time and resources to care for before deciding on a pet. Even if you decide on a specific kind of pet, say a dog, make sure to find a match for you in size, activity level, etc., before you bring one home. You?ll be in for a wonderful time if you get the right pet. Have fun!
