Pets are forever friends with infinite benefits. You may not realize it, but your pet is always there for you. It’s time to recognize your pet’s dedication. Time to reward him or her for the hard work and cuddles. As we celebrate National Pet Day, we bring you 14 reasons to love your pet.
1. Pets make you happy.
Living with pets will make you a happier human being. The more time you spend with your pet, the happier you become. They bring more meaning to your life. Who doesn’t love that?
2. They keep you active.
Many pets love to run, walk and wander. That’s why having pets around will keep you active. Dog owners, for example, walk 79% more every day.
3. And keep you healthy, too.
Because having pets encourages you to be constantly active, you’ll enjoy the health benefits. Your constant companions can help lower your blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels.
4. They make you smarter.
Raising pets isn’t a walk in the park. You’ll learn a lot along the way. You’ll become wiser because of your experiences.
5. Pets bring out the best in you.
You feel good when someone needs you. You feel more responsible, mature, and loving. Simply put, pets bring out the best in you.
6. And help you develop emotional intelligence.
Studies show that people who raise pets have a deeper sense of empathy. Taking care of your fur babies will deepen your emotional intelligence. Ever wonder why you can easily tell when something is wrong with your pet? That’s EQ.
7. Pets boost your confidence.
Want to feel more confident? Then raise a pet. According to the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, pet parents have higher levels of self-esteem and sense of belonging.
8. So you gain more friends.
Self-confidence and a more meaningful existence result in more social connections. No wonder strangers love to connect with you when you’re out with your pet. Yup, pets help you attract more friends.
9. Pets help you get through tough times.
Animals can sympathize and empathize. They offer emotional support. That's why people recover faster from stressful, often traumatic experiences when pets are around.
10. They make you calmer.
Another benefit is reduced anxiety. The simple act of stroking your pet sends signals to your brain to produce more oxytocin and serotonin - hormones that cause you to feel more relaxed.
11. And help relieve stress.
And because you’re more relaxed and peaceful, your body produces lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Showing affection towards your pet also boosts dopamine, also known as the happy hormone.
12. They bring order to your life.
Nurturing pets can be tough work. You need to be disciplined and determined. Establishing habits — daily walks, eating routines, and vet appointments can be taxing. But once you get the hang of it, you'll be more organized and productive.
13. And help you build better, healthier relationships.
Rough seas make skillful sailors. Similarly, when you raise a pet, you learn how to nurture healthier relationships with family and friends.
14. Pets will never leave you. So, Happy National Pet Day!
Nobody wants to be alone. Pets offer companionship—they’ll stay with you until the end. That’s why pet owners are less likely to suffer depression and mental problems linked to loneliness.
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