There are several things in our lives that give us that “ah” feeling.
A big one is our pets.
They’re just so cute and you start feeling all soft and gooey inside when they roll around and come up to you for a little pat on the back.
But did you know that animals can actually help improve your and your family’s lives?
Research indicates that pets can:
- Reduce anxiety by giving unconditional love and acceptance. Dogs are better at this than cats. However, both love you no matter what kind of day you are having. Anxiety also can also be reduced with simple interaction such as stroking their backs. Teaching your dog a new trick provides a time for the two of you to work together and bond. Pets want to please their owners and it feels so good when they snuggle up next to you on the couch.
- Reduce isolation, boredom, and loneliness. Take your dog for a walk. I’m always amazed at the number of people I meet when I’m walking my two little blessings. Checking out the neighborhood while out with your pet helps you reduce boredom and gets you back in life. You see how people have landscaped their yard, who needs to mow their lawn and who has beautiful flowering trees.
Getting a little dog for Grandma might not be such a bad idea, but talk it over with her first. She would have to go out to buy dog food and many pet stores encourage you to take your pet shopping with you. What a way to meet people! Going to the dog park can also provide interaction with other dog owners.
Any pet such as a horse, hamster, tamed rat, goat, fish, and pig can reduce your anxiety. (Notice I didn’t say anything about snakes. That’s a great way for me to increase my anxiety.)
So choose an appropriate pet that fits your “sighs.”
