The 7 benefits of having a pet at home
Currently, it is estimated that approximately 65% of the population lives with at least one pet in the home. This large percentage gives us to understand, at first glance, that having a pet is much more than feeding a pet and that it gives us more advantages than disadvantages.
In fact, in Psychology and Mind we echoed certain studies that suggest certain psychological and social benefits of living with a cat. On the other hand, our friends dogs can also help us improve in certain respects.
I recommend that you check it out for yourself by consulting these links:
- "Cat therapy: the psychological benefits of living with a cat"
- "The benefits of dog therapy"
And, indeed, we are not misguided: lCompanion animals bring physical and psychological benefits to the whole family. Thus, many psychologists They recommend adopting an animal to treat certain personal abilities, and there are even therapies in which animals are the main resource for treating diseases.
What benefits does a pet bring us?
But could sharing life with a faithful pet have clear advantages? We will see it throughout this article. Here we explain what are the 7 benefits of having a pet in the family home.
1. Encourages activity
Having a pet (especially if it is a dog) can mean, for many people, a reason to go outside and take several walks every day. Although the main reason for these walks is the benefit of the pet, their owners also benefit from these outings. Especially important in people who follow a sedentary life or with little will power to move.
2. It helps us to do physical exercise
Beyond going for several walks a day, having a pet can help perform a more intense exerciseEither spending time on the move throwing anything at him or exercising intentionally; Many dog owners find their pet the ideal companion for a run.
3. Helps us structure our time
The human being needs routine to function properly and feel safe and confident. If we have a pet, swe are the ones who will provide you with this daily routine, which at the same time, we will also be structuring our days.
4. Helps us improve our sense of responsibility
Have a living being that depends on us makes us feel useful and responsible, characteristics especially important in child age. And many times, these characteristics arise innately; According to the Affinity Foundation study of children and animals, 90% of children would dedicate part of their time to caring for their animal; 80% would give their favorite toy for him and 75% would get up early to walk him.
5. Helps us express our emotions
A pet is an inexhaustible source of affection, and at the same time, teaches us to express emotions such as love, among others.
6. They facilitate socialization
Our pet can be the ideal topic of conversation that allows us to break the ice when we meet people we do not know too much, or in those uncomfortable situations of silence. What's more, it can be the link that allows us to meet new friends and enlarge our social circle.
7. Especially important in psychological therapy
Animals are great allies for people with psychological disorders; For this reason, there are many assisted therapies in which animals are the main resource to achieve benefits and improvements in people.
Caring for and loving an animal
Given these benefits, the innumerable advantages that a single pet can bring to our lives are evident. All members of the family, both young and old, can benefit from them. Animals allow us to improve our empathy, our sense of responsibility, our communication skills and the expression of feelings and our relationship with the environment.
Of course, having a pet at home involves great responsibility. We must reflect well on which animal is the one that best suits the characteristics of our home, and take into account that having a pet involves financial costs and constant care.