Why having a pet is SO good for you
Anybody with a pet will tell you the joy and love they can bring to your life. It’s why Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership with over two-thirds of Aussie households owning a pet. Whether it’s a cat, dog, bunny, guinea pig, fish, bird or a more unusual pet, having a little or big companion can do wonders for your mind, body and spirit.
Here are just some of the reasons why having a pet (or multiple) is one of the most rewarding things you can do. If you don’t have any pets or can’t own one right now, remember you can always volunteer at a shelter or foster a pet.
Gets you moving
Walking your dog or even chasing a kitten around gets you exercising with your pet. Dogs are the best motivators as they never want to skip a walk whatever the weather. Better yet, it barely feels like exercising because you’re with your furry friend.
Unconditional love
You are never alone when you have a pet. Many pet owners will often talk to their pet and they’ll tell you their pet can communicate back! Their reliable and unconditional companionship means pets become part of the family providing love and affection.
Lifts your mood
Whether you’re stressed, grumpy or feeling a bit blue, pets will help improve your mood. Their cute antics will put a smile on your face and their adoring gaze will instantly lift spirits. Caring for a pet makes you feel needed and wanted, which can give you a sense of purpose and responsibility to lift you from a funk or distract you in times of stress.
Keeps you young
Sometimes with the grind of everyday life, we forget to have fun. Your pet won’t let you forget though and playing with them keeps you lively and laughing.
Meet new people
Animal lovers love talking to other animal lovers. It’s a great way to break the ice when you’re both talking about a subject you love: your pets. Dogs being the social animals they are naturally steer you to meeting other dog walkers.
Healthy heart
Pet owners will tell you their pets fill their heart with love, but now science has backed it up. Studies have shown pet owners have decreased blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels which all help minimise the risk of heart disease and attacks.