Dogs are supposed to be man’s best friend, but in later years there has been an entire movement of acceptance that pets in general are a good addition to both your family and your mental health, but now scientists are stating that they might be as good as having a spouse.
We all know by now that we cannot rely on just one person to cover all of out emotional needs, we need friends, family (biological or chosen) coworkers and partners to lead a complete life where we are well rounded individuals with a robust mental health. Hobbies and external interactions are also a key component for our happiness, and society as a whole has been trying to conquer the loneliness epidemic that has taken over in some of the age groups.
But while having a pet has always been seen as a personal choice that had no bearing on our happiness, we now know that they could be the key to improving our life, even if we have a full and rounded approach to it.
Why is having pets an improvement in our life?
Well, in the case of dogs, the answer might be a bit more complex than in the case of other pets. The fact that they require walks can help improve or keep up with our mobility, improve our mood, meet new people and be around nature as they usually prefer parks and open spaces. But it goes a lot further than that. Pets give unconditional love.
Human interactions are complicated, as there are a minimum of two people involved in the relationship and both people’s needs should be taken into consideration whenever an interaction happens. It is a tug and pull that can be hard to navigate, but with pets none of that is present. As long as you take care of them and learn their likes and dislikes, the relationship with your pet stops being transactional and becomes unique and special.
Animals have their own person that they choose, out of a family, they can choose to be closer to a certain person, but if you live alone, you are the person that they will turn to and love, and it will be without strings. Ok, maybe with food as a string.
But their love is not dependent on how you look, or how much money you make, or if you are in a good mood to listen to their problem. They provide companionship without any of the landmines that we are all familiar with having to navigate in interpersonal relationships. Plus, there is an added bonus.
New research has shown how spending time with animals can help regulate stress by reducing cortisol (usually referred to as the stress hormone) as well as boosting oxytocin (better known as the happiness or love hormone), which is linked to feelings of comfort and connection. This balancing of hormones helps owners reduce their anxiety and be more relaxed, which helps with life’s stressors. Animals also offer mental relief through their playful behavior, drawing attention away from daily stressors and encouraging a lighter, more present focus.
But don’t just take our word for it, getting a pet as long as you are able to care for it is a very big decision that will impact your life positively. Just take into consideration your lifestyle and limitations and do your research before making a commitment to an animal. And remember that it is always better to adopt from a shelter than to purchase a pet, especially if you are thinking of exotic animals or those that are not commonly kept as household companions.