Have you ever wondered what benefit pets bring to people’s lives? Chances are if you’re a devoted and loving pet owner, you already have a pretty good idea! Simply put, pets make us happier. Our pets are so much more than cute and cuddly housemates. Pets are family, and owning a pet offers a wealth of health benefits for your physical and emotional wellbeing!

We know that there are FAR more than 4 ways pets make us happier and healthier. Every pet parent has a unique and beautiful connection with their pet that is all their own. However, we’re excited to share with you 4 distinct ways pets make us happier and healthier. 

4 WAYS OUR PETS MAKE US HAPPIER & HEALTHIER

#1 | Our Pets Keep Us Active and Moving!

Nothing keeps you active quite like having pets in your life!  From trips to the pet store to a day of excitement at the dog park, pets keep you moving. As we all know, regular exercise is amazing for your physical and mental health. According to helpguide.org, playing with your pet can increase serotonin and dopamine levels, which helps to calm you, relax you, and leave you feeling undeniably happy! Pets make us happier when we play with them, so carve out some time to get active and play with your pet.

#2 | Our Pets Are the Greatest Companions Around!

Having a pet is a wonderful way to ward off loneliness! If you are living alone, having a pet gives you warmth, love, interaction, and affection each and every day. Prolonged loneliness can have profound impacts on our physical and mental health, so if you find yourself feeling lonely (and can commit to the responsibility), maybe it’s time to consider visiting your local shelter, rescue, or humane association. The positive benefits can be amazing!

Dogs make for loyal companions and friends, while cats are perfect for a low-energy lifestyle! If you’ve recently lost a pet and the thought of getting another pet sounds too difficult, you may want to consider a custom stuffed animal of your pet! This custom plush is the perfect companion until you are ready to adopt a new pet. Another overlooked benefit is that pets help you meet other like-minded individuals. While you and your pet are out and about, you are sure to meet some fellow pet lovers. 

#3 | Our Pets Help Us Develop Regular Routines!

At the end of the day, humans are animals, and just like our beloved pets, humans crave routine. Routine is an essential part of a happy and healthy life. Some folks can’t stand routines, but countless studies have shown that they help you feel better about yourself! Just like us, our pets have daily needs that need to be met regularly and consistently. From feedings and bathroom breaks to regular medication, meetings our pets needs on a regular, predictable basis is extremely valuable for their wellbeing. When we regularly accomplish the tasks we put in front of ourselves, we feel better! Our pets make us happier and healthier by encouraging us to follow routines.

#4 | Our Pets Help Boost Our Mood & Lower Stress!

Nothing lowers stress and boosts mood like cuddling with your beloved pet! Our pets are naturally funny creatures that are sure to make you smile and in many cases, love to please and make us happy! Even on the worst days imaginable, it’s impossible not to smile and feel your mood swell when you see the excitement and joy your pet experiences just from seeing you come home! It has also been suggested that pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression. This is likely because pets make great companions, combat loneliness, and are always here to put a smile on your face!

There you have it. 4 ways pets make us happier and healthier. We hope you have enjoyed reading the article and hopefully you learned a thing or two.