Whether you’ve been animal-crazy since your youth or have never taken a shine to pets, you’ve probably noticed that lots of people are devoted to their four-legged friends. Ever wondered what it is that makes pets so popular?
Researchers have actually been studying this question for decades. They’ve identified the basic human needs that pets can meet, and the less tangible ways that dogs, cats, and other domestic animals can improve human health and happiness.
Love
We all need love in our lives. Pets don’t just give us an opportunity to receive unconditional love: we get to give it back. And that intimate bond is unbeatable when it comes to building confidence and all-around well-being. Kids who grow up with pets become more compassionate and brave, and lonely adults who adopt pets can experience a significant shift in mental and emotional stability.
The truth is, we don’t always get all the love we need from the people in our lives. And while pets may seem like a shabby substitute, the truth is that their constant presence can be just as effective in making us feel loved and important.
Immunity
Flu shots are important, but there are other ways to boost your immune system. Being raised with dogs reduces rates of respiratory problems like asthma and ear infections, and young children in pet-owning homes are less likely to need antibiotics. Infants who spend time around pets are less likely to develop allergy-based illnesses, too.
If you’re considering having children, adopting a pet now is one of the best things you can do for your future kids’ health.
Strength
This benefit is twofold. First, staying active with your pet will work wonders for your physical strength and cardiovascular health. Dog owners walk more than non-owners, and their lives are better for it. Pets can also inspire us to run and jump in ways we wouldn’t otherwise.
Furthermore, pets can strengthen your spirit. They help you to become more resilient to life’s challenges, because they never judge you, and they help you believe in yourself. And knowing that your pet is dependent on you and needs you to stay strong can help you push through a tough time.
Play
Scientists have been uncovering more and more of the benefits of play, which most of us leave behind in childhood. It’s a key factor in creativity and performing well in work and school. Play keeps our bodies and minds supple, and ready for anything. Pets can remind us of the essential joys in life, and keep us grounded in the world around us.
After all, why are we alive if we can’t have fun? And not the hollow kind of fun where you look around and wonder what everyone’s smiling about–the real laughter and delight from an afternoon of running around the yard with your high-energy pup playing an intense game of tug-of-war.
How do you access these benefits?
There are many reasons people shy away from spending time with pets. Maybe you feel awkward, or even scared. Or you love animals, but can’t imagine taking on the responsibility. There are ways to overcome your fears and stake your claim on a better life:
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- Seek out therapy animals. Therapy dogs, emotional support animals, and other support pets can be found in certain clinical settings, as well as some schools and workplaces. Look for opportunities to spend even a few minutes at a time with an animal, like dropping by a shelter to meet the pets, or asking to volunteer at the front desk.
- Become a pet-sitter. Rover makes it easy to gain experience working with pets and even get paid to pursue your passion. Give it a try, and you’ll meet lots of pets and get lots of benefits as a result.
- Adopt. Even if you travel often or have other commitments, most of us have the capacity to be great owners. Look for a pet that needs a level of commitment and maintenance that you’re confident you can provide. For instance, an older dog who needs a quiet home for their final years, or even a bird or fish if you want to start small. You can always hire a pet-sitter and get help with training or anything else you need–you’re never alone in this!
Written by Nat Smith, Rover.com community member. Rover is the nation’s largest network of 5-star pet sitters and dog walkers.
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