Pets as therapy and for our wellbeing

For me , I have had lots of pets in my life time , cats , dogs, birds, guinea pigs, fish , budgies, penny turtles , galah , etc etc

love to hear what your pet means to you xxx

hi @Ginge and @roses111, @ComplexityQueen , @LSR , @Libra @SpinningDaisy, @MamaBird @TazCat.@FairerDingo@Socrates8@,

@SuzieQ @Stefee @Anne5 @Happier @FairerDingo @AdamB @M221067 @suzyQ @Freya13 @Bwishes@frozenButterfly

@Cakehas 2 dogs, 1 horse, 2 chooks and 1 guinea pig.

@Former-Member wrote

1. Pets reduce stress

Many of us feel stress. Research shows that the simple act of patting a pet can ease stress and reduce your blood pressure. Even watching fish swimming in an aquarium or garden pond reduces stress. I can vouch for that. It can also help us to relax and is a great method of practicing mindfulness.

2. Pets provide companionship

Pets can be affectionate, accepting, loyal, honest and consistent. For anyone feeling isolated and with little support, a pet can really help to reduce your feelings of loneliness. You have a little animal who loves you for who you are and does not judge you for what you are not.

3. Pets fulfill the human need to touch

Most people feel better when they have physical contact with others. The simple act of patting a pet can lower your heart rate significantly. Smelling your pet can also release feel-good hormones, which benefit your feelings of happiness and wellbeing.

4. Pets require routine and organisation

Proper care of all pets requires a routine of feeding, cleaning and exercise. This provides pet owners with a purpose and motivation. This aids our self esteem, wellbeing and overall mental health.

5. Pets provide a sense of purpose

A pet can provide us with a sense of purpose. This in turn, helps improve our mental health, such as depression and anxiety. If you have a pet, you are never alone and you remain responsible for looking after them. They need us equally as much as we need them.

6. Pets increase your social interaction

Pets create numerous opportunities for social interaction. Going to pet-friendly events, beaches or parks helps to increase your social network. You can make new friends while taking your dog for a walk or waiting at the vet. Casual conversations with strangers or acquaintances can easily be struck up with other pet loving owners. People with pets are much more approachable, than those without.

7. Pets improve your fitness

If you own a dog, they need regular walks, and this regular exercise is good for you too. We all know that exercise has many benefits for our mental health and wellbeing. You can also use the time walking your dog to improve your fitness and make the most of the outdoors to help you further develop mindfulness and relaxation.

Sherry 🐶🐱🐰🐹🐟🐔🦜🐍