When we come home, our pets are there to greet us with wagging tails, happy purrs, or excited chirps.
They give us a furry shoulder to cry on or a feathery head to nuzzle, offering us their unconditional love. Pets are not just animals; they are members of our family, whether they have fur, feathers, or scales.
There is extensive scientific evidence showing how much pets improve our lives. Let's explore the many ways our animal friends make us happier and healthier.
A special bond
Pets also study us, becoming experts in our habits. For instance, your dog will often run to greet you at the door before you even put on your shoes or coat to leave.
This synchronization of their behavior and our body language makes it appear that they can read our minds, which makes us feel more connected to them.
Unconditional love
Pets give us a special kind of love that never changes and never judges us. Whether your day was wrong or you had a big success, your pet is just happy to see you. This steady love gives us a big emotional lift, helping to reduce stress and loneliness.
When you come home after a tough day, your pet's wagging tail or gentle purr can make everything seem a little bit better.
Research shows that just petting a dog can lower your blood pressure and heart rate. This simple act can make you feel calm and happy. Spending time with your pet can bring a sense of peace and relaxation that is hard to find elsewhere.
Keeping us active and social
Dogs need regular walks and playtime every day, and this activity makes us get up and move, which is very good for our physical and mental health.
Walking a dog, caring for a cat, feeding them, or cleaning their litter box helps us stay active, gives us a sense of purpose and a daily routine, and can also help us meet new people in the neighborhood and build new friendships.
Pets, whether dogs or cats, help us stay active and give us a reason to get up and care for them daily.
The joys of all creatures, great and small
While dogs and cats are the most popular pets, other animals can also make us happy. The happiness boost isn't just limited to furry friends. For example, watching colorful fish swim in an aquarium can be very calming.
With all this affection flowing through you, the feel-good hormone oxytocin is released, which makes you happier and more relaxed.
Keeping away negative feelings
Having a pet can make you happier and healthier in many ways. Pets can help you stay active, give you comfort, and make you feel less lonely.
As they help to decrease the levels of cortisol in your bloodstream, you reduce the impacts of negative feelings such as anxiety and depression, easing the symptoms of PTSD and bipolar disorder.
Assess your pet's quality of life
To enjoy the special bond you have with your pet for even longer, it's essential to carry out a quality-of-life assessment, especially if they're in their senior years.
At River Valley Gateway, we care deeply about animals and are keen on ways to help you enjoy their last few years and make the best memories with your furry friends. Contact us today.
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