As animal lovers know, there are many benefits to having a pet. While it is true that pets can help alleviate stress, they are also a responsibility. If you are considering getting a pet, talk to a personal support coach about what you are expecting and how to choose the right pet for you and your lifestyle.
Having a furry friend can provide companionship for individuals who are lonely and, depending on the animal, can provide opportunities to get outside and connect with others. The right animal companion can bring so much joy to life.
Pets Can Help Alleviate Stress, Anxiety, and Depression
When you choose the right pet, you are bringing affection and companionship into your home. The love people share with their animals is clear when you listen to friends and family describe their pets as one of the family. Many find that pet ownership helps to buoy their moods.
Long-term mental health concerns can be managed, in part, with animal interactions. Pets provide emotional support and socialization. Plus, for individuals who live alone and do not have much companionship, animals bring routine and a feeling of security.
Be Sure You Choose the Right Pet
While the health benefits of pets are clear, it is important to mention that the right animal needs to be chosen. For example, if a person does not have the time or energy to care for a dog, adopting a puppy is not advised. After all, dogs will need to be taken outside at least three times every day. Plus, they need to be fed and played with regularly.
It is important to note that even low maintenance animals such as fish can help to soothe our worries. Watching them swim can be a way out of our own thoughts.
Some find researching the best animal breed to match their lifestyles helpful. For instance, some older adults find the affectionate dog breed of Bichon Frise to be a good match. This breed does not shed and they are happy with a few short walks a day.
If you are interested in getting a pet, discuss your lifestyle and pet preferences with a staff member at a pet adoption center. They have experts on hand who will discuss different pet personalities with you. Together, you can determine what be best for your situation. This will typically include discussions about your energy level, if the animal will be near children, and what expenses may be involved.
Knowing that pets can help alleviate stress, think about if a pet could improve your daily life. There are many resources to help you choose a pet. For some a cat is an ideal choice, a snuggly friend who does not need to be taken out and is happy to spend an afternoon on the couch with their human companion. Others want a dog who will accompany them on walks. Or even a fish tank may be on your mind.
Discuss your options with a counselor and a pet adoption specialist. Then, you can choose the perfect furry friend for you.
