Whether it’s a dog, cat, hamster, or bird, pets make for some of the most loyal companions around. Not only do they provide companionship and play, but studies are showing that the relationship between humans and their pets is actually mutually beneficial — and good for us.
Pets can help improve your quality of life by providing emotional support, exercise, and a sense of purpose. As a result, many people find them helpful for dealing with depression and anxiety. They can also boost your social life by bringing you out into the community to visit pet-friendly events, beaches, and parks. In addition to promoting social interactions, pets have been shown to help with loneliness and depression in older adults.
The best pet to choose will depend on your lifestyle and how much time you have for it. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance animal, consider corn snakes or other nonvenomous reptiles. These snakes can live up to 10 years, and they’re easy to care for, needing only freshly deceased or frozen rodents for food. They also come in a variety of colors, making them fun for children and adults alike.
Small animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs, and rabbits are great for teaching kids responsibility, as they can be kept in cages that are fairly small. They also require very little space, and their long lifespans mean that they’re a solid choice for kids who want to be able to watch their pets grow up and age with them.
Birds are a great alternative to larger animals and can be quite entertaining, with some breeds being able to speak. They can also be calming, with studies suggesting that stroking or simply watching a pet like a fish or a bird can reduce blood pressure and increase levels of the calming hormone serotonin.
A pet can have a huge impact on your child’s well-being, particularly if they are an only child. A pet can teach them how to share and play with others, which is important for their social development. In addition, a positive relationship with a pet can help them learn to treat other animals and people with respect, which is essential for good mental health.
Regardless of what type of pet you end up getting, it’s important that everyone involved understands that it will be a commitment and that they should not treat it like a toy. Careless treatment of pets can be damaging to their health, and it can also lead to stress and frustration for you. Make sure to discuss the responsibilities of each animal with your children before you bring them home so they’re not surprised by any challenges down the road.