2020 was a huge year for pet adoption. With more people finding themselves at home than ever before, it was the perfect time for families to consider adding a new furry friend to their household. That hasn’t changed in 2021, and it is still a great time to consider adopting.
Whether you live alone or you have a bustling household, adopting a pet could be the best thing that ever happened to you. A dog or cat can enrich your life in so many different ways. If you’ve been considering the pros and cons of welcoming a pet into your life, here are 10 ways adopting could change your life for the better.
The Benefits of Pet Companionship
Any pet, especially dogs and cats, can provide much-needed companionship for individuals and families. By providing unconditional love and companionship, pets help reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness. These mood-boosting effects can have a huge positive impact on a person’s life.
Single people will feel less lonely when they have a pet to come home to. Older people will appreciate a companion to share their retirement years. Families can benefit from a playmate and companion for everyone—after all, who doesn’t remember their childhood pets fondly?
Pets bring joy into our lives. As long as we provide them with enough love, attention, and exercise, they return our affection with their devotion. Here are some of the biggest benefits of adopting a pet.
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You’ll See the World Differently
When you come home in a bad mood, you’re probably not looking on the bright side of anything. But when your dog or cat greets you with glee, it’s hard not to smile. Animals see the world differently and when you adopt a pet, you’ll start to see the world differently.
If your cat or dog is enchanted by something as simple as a crumpled piece of paper or a paper towel roll, it could help you to see ordinary things as opportunities. Animals have such curiosity and wonder about the smallest things, which is an attitude that could benefit every human!
Pets Make You More Playful
When your cat bats at the window blind cord or your dog drops a ball at your feet, you have an opportunity to put more play into your life. These invitations will help you to smile and laugh more, be more spontaneous and playful, and teach you to find the silly side of life. Pets just make you more playful!
Reduces Loneliness and Isolation
If you feel lonely a lot these days, you’re not alone. Many people are suffering from social isolation, especially during the pandemic. While our online social activity might seem like a good substitute, technology might actually be isolating us more!
Having a dog or cat around can help you reduce loneliness and isolation, especially if you live alone. That constant companionship could make a huge difference in maintaining your mental health and feeling better overall.
Gives You a Reason to Get Moving!
Adopting a dog isn’t just good for your mental health—it can be good for your physical health as well. Dogs need to be walked, or at least go outside regularly, especially if they are young and have lots of energy. A dog could give you the push you need to start exercising regularly and getting more physically fit.
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Builds Connections with Other People
People who love pets have an instant way to connect with one another. You’ll find that when you’re out walking your dog, you’ll strike up a lot of conversations with other dog lovers.
Animals can create online connections as well. There are lots of groups for cat and dog lovers to share photos and stories of their animals. Getting a pet opens up new opportunities for connections with other people in addition to a strong bond with your furry friend.
Provides Positive Responsibility
Sometimes, motivation to do more than the bare minimum can be tough to find. The positive responsibility of a pet can help to provide that motivation in many different ways. If you have trouble getting up in the morning, for instance, a dog or cat could make it easier to start your day so you can attend to their needs. It can also provide structure and routine to your daily life.
Can Boost Confidence
Many people struggle with confidence and self-esteem. It’s a common problem that can be difficult to resolve. Although getting a dog or cat can’t fix all of our insecurities, many people find that the unconditional love a pet provides helps them to feel better about themselves and more confident overall. It definitely can’t hurt!
Helps with Trauma
Trauma is a complex issue requiring personalized treatment with a professional. Addressing it can be a lifelong process and it can’t always be “fixed.” However, adopting a pet can be beneficial for people living with trauma.
Animals provide a calming presence and can help people with trauma feel safer and more grounded. A pet can be extremely helpful in managing daily trauma and helping people heal. Some people even opt to have their pets certified as emotional support animals, which allows for better housing rights.
Improves Your Health
Because owning a pet can improve your mood and get you outside, you may see some unexpected health benefits after you adopt a pet. While it’s not going to keep you out of the doctor’s office for the rest of your life, you may find aspects of your health, like your energy levels and mood increase when you own a pet. It’s great preventative care!
Live With Your Best Friend!
Adopting a pet can change your life because you’ll get the chance to find your best friend! You’ll see them every day and increase your bond as the years go on. The unconditional love you’ll get from a pet is like nothing else in the world.
Why You Should Adopt
When picking out your new family member, it’s best to adopt from your local shelter. You’ll find dogs and cats of all shapes, sizes, and personalities! By supporting a shelter, you’ll help an animal in need and contribute to solving the pet overpopulation problem. You’ll also be supporting a non-profit organization dedicated to animal welfare.
Take your time when choosing which pet to adopt. It’s important to choose a dog or cat that fits your lifestyle. After all, if you’re a bit of a couch potato, a young, athletic dog would probably get pretty bored sitting around and watching Netflix, but a sweet and cuddly older cat might be the perfect fit.
Don’t be in a rush, but make sure you’re not overlooking a hidden gem, either. Start your search with an open mind. You’ll know when you’ve found the perfect fit.
