Having a pet in your home offers companionship and many proven health benefits. Researchers have studied the pros and cons of owning a pet for many years. Young, old, or in-between - pet ownership has been proven to reduce signs of depression and much more.
Is Pet Ownership Right For You?
When considering adding a pet to your family, there are many factors to consider. The responsibility and dedication required of a pet owner offer opportunities for growth, learning, and endless benefits. They can also lead to stress and frustration if your lifestyle isn't compatible with the needs of your new pet.
Benefits;
Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. Some of the health benefits of having a pet include:
Decreased blood pressure
Decreased cholesterol levels
Decreased triglyceride levels
Decreased feelings of loneliness
Increased opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities
Increased opportunities for socialization
Is adopting a pet right for you?
Consider some of the following factors before adding another furry family member to your crew - big or small. Here are a few of the factors we believe are the most important;
Is the pet you're considering right for your lifestyle? An active dog may not be the best fit for a senior couple, while a small and anxioius dog would be a poor fit for a young active person who is often gone for long hours of the day.
Where do you live? Is there a move in your near future? Does that involve an apartment search, or purchasing a new home? What does that mean for your pet / your home options / can you afford an extra pet security deposit? Housing restrictions is the number one reason we see pets surrendered at the shelter - a heartbreaking decision for any pet owner to make.
Get out the crystal ball... Look into your near future. What do you see? Are you downsizing? Do you have a growing family? New babies, and new living situations - or perhaps a medical or physical limitations - can often make pet ownership difficult (or even impossible). Adding a 12-week old kitten to your household is a potential 10-15+ year commitment, while perhaps an older, mellow dog might be a 3-5 year commitment. While we never discourage pet ownership at any stage of life, it is important to consider what the future will hold for you when selecting your new pet and having a plan in place for them should your life circumstances change. No one knows the future, but making thoughtful decisions today can save you a future heartache if you should be parted from your beloved pets prematurely.