Thinking about getting a pet? Not sure you are ready for the responsibility?
While pets require time, money and care, they also are a shoulder to cry on, an alarm clock during the week (and weekend), and a reason to skip the gym. In fact, the benefits that pets offer us — body, mind and soul — may far outweigh the cost and obligation of owning one.
Recent studies have shown that pets not only offer companionships, but also improve the health and well-being of their owners.
- No need to hit the gym. Pets, dogs in particular, get people up and moving. Whether it is a long walk around the neighborhood, or a rambunctious romp in the park, a dog will surely get its owner heart rate up and keep them moving. The result is a fitter, healthier owner.
- Happy heart. Studies published in Frontiers in Psychology have shown that getting a pet actually can lead to healthier triglycerides and blood pressure levels. Cats may offer protection against severe heart disease, while having a dog may help lower heart rate and blood pressure.
- Less sneezy, breathe easy. Some research, like that published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Allergy, indicates that having a cat or dog at home may actually reduce the risk of allergies. Cats can actually reduce wheezing, a symptom of allergies, in toddlers and infants, according to the study.
- Compassion and responsibility. What better way to teach a child or teen responsibility? While younger kids cannot care for a pet alone, they can help with feeding, grooming and walking. Middle and high school kids may be able to take on some solo family pet chores, such as changing the litter box.
- Pick up a date. Step away from social media and matchmaker websites. Today, there are so many places that allow dogs like some restaurants and shopping centers, along with beaches and parks, that they also are great places to meet people. Dogs make great icebreakers.
The conversation that began about a loyal, beloved mutt might just end with dinner and drinks.
Although there are many benefits to owning a pet, it is not something that should be jumped into. The time, care, love and money spent on pet ownership are priceless for many people, but not for all.
Please consider carefully before bringing an animal into a home. For those who decide that a pet is right for them, don’t forget to check out the local animal shelter.
The biggest and best reward of pet ownership is the knowledge that someone made a difference and saved the life of an animal.
