Whether dogs, cats, fish, rabbits, or any of the many other creatures people keep as pets, these animals are not only entertaining and amusing, but they offer health benefits to their owners. Research is beginning to show that the bond between humans and animals goes beyond companionship and is mutually beneficial, as demonstrated by the devotion of pet owners to their animals and the popularity of movies and TV shows like Lassie and Rin Tin Tin.
Animals can teach us to be more thoughtful of other living things and their needs, including the need for a stable environment, adequate food, water, and shelter. Their presence in our lives helps to reduce loneliness, and their companionship can be soothing and therapeutic. For people with certain disabilities, a pet may help elevate their sense of self-worth and socialization. For example, a person with cerebral palsy who learns to ride a horse may feel more confident going out in public. Pets can also provide a sense of purpose and stability in a person’s life, especially if they lose other things that used to fill their time, such as a career or children moving away. Caring for a pet can give a person something to focus on and do, thereby providing a positive source of income (e.g., a pet grooming business), giving them meaning and purpose, and increasing their optimism and sense of self-worth.
Many people who have pets have been able to overcome depression and anxiety through the companionship of their pets. Pets are a good source of exercise, and their activity can increase metabolisms and lower blood pressure. In addition, the bonding process can be emotionally healing for people who have suffered through the loss of a loved one or are dealing with other painful or difficult experiences in their lives.
In addition, pets can be helpful to older adults who are lonely or depressed because of the passing of family members, retirement, or other factors. They can help them feel needed and a part of a community, which has been proven to improve mental health. They can even help prevent a lot of the depression and anxiety that is so prevalent among seniors.
Families with small children or elderly people should consider carefully what type of pet is best for them. For instance, a dog requires a lot of space and energy to play, and can accidentally knock over someone who is unsteady on their feet. In addition, a large or rambunctious dog could injure a small child or senior citizen, and some pets have been known to attack their owners as a result of being startled or upset. An alternative to a dog is a cat, which requires less room but may require more attention from its owner. Alternatively, some people prefer to have a bird as a pet, which can be calming but tends to be more active and noisy than other pets. A canary, cockatiel, parakeet, or a particular species of parrot might be suitable for your household, as these are easy to care for and are relatively inexpensive.