The human desire to care for another being should never be underestimated. The lengths we will go to ensure the well-being of a member of our family is insurmountable, even if that family member is covered in fur. Studies have shown that the fur members of our family can bring us more joy, less stress, and even more emotional support than our actual human family. Is it any wonder why we shower our pets with love and want nothing but the very best for them?
Here are some of the very best reasons why we love our pets so much –
- Companionship: Pets provide us with constant companionship, especially for people who live alone. They give us a sense of being loved and cherished. They are waiting there for us when we get home and are always happy to see us. For children, pets can be their very first bestfriend, while in older people, they can be a source of support and purpose.
- Unconditional love: Pets love their humans unconditionally, no matter their mood, appearance, or behavior, which is not always the case with human to human relationships. We can be having a bad day, be irritated or annoyed, and when we calm down our pets are waiting for us, wanting to give us love. No apology needed from our side. They love us no matter what.
- Emotional support and stress relief: Pets make us feel better emotionally. Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure. Emotional support pets can help by providing a routine. From walking your dog, brushing your cat, or feeding your hamster every day, routine gives purpose and helps to support those who suffer from emotional stress. When we’ve had a bad day and go home to our pets, just patting and caring for them can take us out of our heads and provide some much-needed stress relief.
- Fun: Pets are fun to be around. They can make us laugh and distract us from worries or problems. Who hasn’t watched funny cat or dog videos on social media and felt happier and lighter afterward? We love to laugh at pets’ funny antics, and it provides a nice respite from our everyday cares.
- Responsibility: Having a pet brings a sense of responsibility and purpose to our lives. Caring for a pet requires us to be more mindful of our actions and prioritize their needs. They teach young children to be kind and gentle, while for others, their pets can be the sole reason to get out of bed in the morning, knowing that a little life depends on them no matter how they are feeling. 7. Health benefits: Pets can improve our physical health as well. They encourage us to exercise more which can help to lower the rate of heart-disease and strokes. Simply sitting and petting our animals helps to reduce stress hormones, while our everyday interactions with our pets increase our happy hormones, so having a pet that you care for is indeed a very worthwhile health benefit.
Overall, pets bring us joy, comfort, and love, making them indispensable members of our families and lives. What is not to love about our beloved pets?