Summary

The article emphasizes the numerous health benefits, both mental and physical, that come from the companionship of pets.

Abstract

The author, a pet owner, shares personal experiences about how pets, specifically her three animals, have significantly improved her mental health and overall well-being. She outlines five key reasons everyone could benefit from the presence of a pet: they are perfect companions, reduce stress, increase social interaction, improve physical fitness and mental health, and act as protectors. The article highlights the unconditional love and support pets provide, especially during challenging times such as the author's experience with her mother's illness. The author encourages those unable to own pets to spend time with friends' animals, suggesting that even brief interactions can be beneficial.

Opinions

The author believes that pets are a source of joy and entertainment, providing endless love and support.
Pets are credited with the ability to sense human emotions and offer comfort during distressing times.
The author expresses that pets contribute to reducing feelings of loneliness, especially for those working from home or living alone.
Regular interaction with pets, such as walking dogs or cuddling cats, is seen as an effective way to lower stress levels.
The author suggests that pets can enhance social life by facilitating connections with other pet owners, leading to new friendships.
Pets are considered beneficial for physical fitness, as they encourage regular exercise and outdoor activities.
The author acknowledges that pets can be protective and loyal, often forming strong bonds with their owners.
The article conveys the opinion that the companionship of pets can be a crucial support system, sometimes even more reliable than human relationships.
The author advocates for pet companionship as a means to maintain mental health and offers a personal testimony of the positive impact her pets had during her mother's cancer progression and eventual passing.

Five Reasons Why Everyone Needs the Presence of a Pet For Better Health

Call me a softie, but I LOVE animals and the joy they bring into my life

I am a proud pet mum, and I own three boys.

One is a toy poodle, a golden retriever, a beautiful cat with piercing green eyes, and a ferocious appetite for food and cuddles.

Each one of them brings great joy and entertainment into my life.

I’m sure any pet parents can resonate with that.

Working from home has changed the dynamics of the family.

Our pets love having us around, and they would never leave home given the option.

Henry, my cat, is never far away from our home, and my two dogs love to know exactly where we are at all times.

My cat Henry was my saviour during mum’s cancer progression.

He knew exactly the right time for a cuddle and could sense my distress and when to be there for support.

I will never forget those very challenging times and having my beautiful cat as my support buddy.

Although it’s not realistic for some people to own a pet, I highly recommend you become friends with someone that does.

Pets provide so many benefits to our mental health; it’s hard to ignore what an incredible impact these tiny creatures make in our life.

Here are some of my favourite reasons why pets help to improve your health on many levels.

One: Are one of the perfect companions you can have

Animals don’t ask for much.

A walk around the block, a pat, hug, or kiss is pretty much it.

But, they love to snuggle up on the bed, in your lap, or sit close to you when you work.

When working, my Toy Poodle sits close to my feet, just in case I escape the house without him!

If you are alone, pets can help reduce that feeling of loneliness, especially when working on your own.

No wonder a lot of people were purchasing pets during the lockdowns.

They did help me keep my sanity intact & a smile on my face.

Two: The reduce your levels of stress

Walking your dog, giving your cat a cuddle or a stroke, or even watching fish swimming can all play a part in eliminating levels of stress.

Pets sometimes give us a taste of what is simple, just being in the moment whilst forgetting the past and not being too consumed by the future.

The reality is we don’t know what will happen tomorrow, but pets teach us to enjoy the day whilst appreciating simplicity, sunshine, and fresh air.

Three: Help you become more social

It’s so easy to strike up a conversation with someone that loves animals or with an animal.

I find that most people with a pet tend to be lovely, and it’s pretty easy to start up a friendship.

That can lead to playing dates with other dogs or even lasting friendships.

I met two sisters as a result of my dog walking adventures.

They have three of their own. So now we all share a special friendship.

We meet up regularly as it gives the dogs a chance to catch up and for us humans to have a laugh.

These little meetups would save my sanity during the lockdowns and have resulted in a beautiful friendship filled with laughter, good times, and our fur kids.

Four: Improves your physical fitness & mental health

Although my dog is a little small for this, running or jogging seems to have become very popular in the company of your dog.

Going for regular walks during the day is a great way to break away from screen time and enjoy the beautiful environment.

Regular exercise in the fresh air with our fur friends can help improve our mental health and wellbeing.

Of course, dogs do need regular exercise to stay healthy, but they also like to meet other fur friends, sniff bottoms, and get a chance to do their business outdoors (and hopefully not in your place!).

You have to take the good with the essentials.

Five: They become our protector

Even though I sometimes have words with my toy poodle about his aggressiveness, I know he’s just overprotective.

Animals have this sense of loyalty, laying down their own lives to save yours.

There is no second thought or question in that manner. Animals are here to serve you and be your protector.

As a fur mum, I feel obligated to protect all my kids, and they too can sense that bond of loyalty and love.

When my daughter is sick, they never leave her side.

But, if there are times of distress, they all gather around for support, love, and a cuddle.

What more could anyone ask for?

Key Takeaways

Animals look for very little in return — if not anything at all.

Every day is a new adventure with my boys, and the entertainment and love I receive are never-ending.

If you don’t have a pet, I highly recommend you pet-sit or offer to look after a friend's fur child.

My animals have provided a warm, nurturing environment to help me through my mother’s sickness and death.

My life is overflowing with the abundant love that these three creatures give me.

When humans turn their backs on you, animals will be right there waiting for you when you get home.

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