How Pets are Beneficial to us Humans

By Tina Fares, Staff Reporter, The Pawprint

For as long as I can remember, I have been asking my mother to get me a dog. The answer’s always a blatant “NO”. What could possibly be better than having a tiny, furry companion with me at all times. Someone to play with and come home to after a long stressful day at school.

There are many benefits when it comes to owning a pet. Having a pet comes with many responsibilities. One of which is the very obvious additional exercise that comes with it. For example: taking your dog for a walk, a hike or a nice run can all boost your physical health. Dog owners are more likely to meet their daily activity requirements, while helping keep the pet’s physical shape in check. Exercising with one’s pet strengthens the bond between the pet and the owner making them both happier and healthier. 

One of the biggest benefits of having a pet is the increase of a person’s mental health and happiness levels. A pet provides companionship which can decrease the risk of you getting sick. They can also reduce loneliness and prevent depression. Living with a pet means you always have some company even when you’re home alone or working. Having a pet helps anxious people feel in control and distracts them from their worries. WebMd explains how having a pet means having the responsibility of taking care of their needs every day. The website also explains how setting up a schedule for pets when it comes to feeding, grooming, and exercising is a great way to provide stability and predictability in a person’s life. These routines generally offer an important sense of control which most people seek. Moreover, taking care of a pet helps children develop responsibility skills and independence. 

Overall, not only do pets help increase your physical health, they can also improve your mental health. Pets provide us humans with a better mentality which leads to a healthier and happier lifestyle. Pets are a vital part of our lives and help everyone regardless of age, gender, race, habitat, lifestyle…