If you’ve been lucky enough to have an animal that you adore in your life, you’ll understand why I hesitate to use the word “pet” to describe them. It somehow feels insufficient. I’ve had a few; the first was a hefty, golden-eyed, gray-furred cat named Bogie that adopted my family when I was a teen. He was not only sweet and affectionate, but his presence was healing. Sometimes, when I was sad, he would climb into my lap and put a gentle paw on my cheek. I believe that he loved me. I know that I loved him, and I also know that love was good for me.
The possible benefits of having an animal companion in one’s life are many and measurable.
Mental Health
Pet lovers can attest to the mental health benefits their animal companions bring. Research shows that having a beloved pet may:
- decrease feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress
- lower blood pressure
- increase feelings of unconditional love
- create a sense of calm
- offer a sense of purpose for the people who care for the animals
Physical Health
All dogs need some form of daily exercise for their well-being, and providing that can be a chance for their humans to get some physical activity, too. Walks, runs, and hikes can provide some of the movement needed to improve cardiorespiratory fitness, increase muscle strength and balance, and reduce the risk of many diseases—for both pets and their people.
Social Connection
Dog parks are wonderful “third spaces” where pups and people can connect with others. Fans of other types of pets often find each other through in-person or online affinity groups. Pets themselves can reduce their owners’ feelings of loneliness and isolation simply by being around.
Other Surprising Perks
- Studies have found a link between having a dog and higher survival rates for people who have experienced a heart-related emergency.
- Pet ownership has been associated with building and maintaining sharper attention, faster cognitive processing speeds, and better memory.
- Children who are regularly exposed to pets before their first birthday have a lower risk of allergies and asthma by age 5.
Will having a pet benefit you? Maybe, but keep in mind that many of these benefits are potential, and there are possible downsides to pet ownership:
- Pets can negatively impact sleep by moving around, hogging the bed, and waking you earlier than you want.
- They can require expensive veterinary care, especially as they age.
- For people with reduced mobility, caring for some types of pets can be difficult—think about lifting heavy bags of dog food or litter, picking up poop, etc.
- Some pets can get underfoot and trip you, or jump on you and unintentionally knock you down.
If you don’t already have an animal companion, here are some questions to ask yourself before taking on that multiyear emotional and financial commitment:
- Why do I want a pet? Understanding the underlying motivation will help you choose one that’s a good fit. Do you want a running buddy or a cuddle buddy? A riding-in-the-truck friend or a hang-out-in-the-office co-worker?
- Do I have any restrictions that impact this choice? This includes both rental restrictions and physical limitations. For instance, a high-energy dog isn’t the best choice for folks who aren’t able to provide all the exercise it needs.
- Can I honor the time commitment good care will require—both on a day-to-day basis and throughout the animal’s lifetime? All animals need time and gentle attention, and providing for them takes effort. This means everything from brushing, to play, to potty training. At the end of their lives, their care may become more demanding.
- Will getting a pet impact others in my household? Will they be helping with pet care? Is everyone clear about expectations? Do they have allergies to, or fears about, a pet? What about other pets you may already have? Will they be positively or negatively impacted by another animal?
- Can I afford to provide good care? There are many costs that come with pets: adoption and licensing fees, supplies, food, boarding or pet sitting while you travel, veterinary costs, medications, training, grooming, and more. Are these expenses in your budget?
Having a pet can be a real gift—for some people, at some times. If you’re not one of those folks, or if the time isn’t right, don’t worry. There are other ways to experience many of these benefits—without having to scoop poop.
