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The Benefits (and joy!) of Owning a Pet

Pet Friendly Apartments Sioux Falls, SD

Pets can be a lot of responsibility – you have to remember to feed them, potty train them, get them enough exercise, teach them not to jump on other people, the list goes on. But despite all of the hard work and time it takes to care from one properly, having a pet can bring the greatest joy to our day to day lives. If you’re even considering adding a furry critter to your family – read below to read about the benefits. Be careful though, you may be running to the nearest Animal Rescue to start the adoption process before you finish the article!

  1. Did you know it is scientifically proven that animals can reduce stress and anxiety? Doctor’s have been known to allow pets into rehabilitation facilities, certify them as therapy pets and even prescribe pet adoption as a remedy to stress and anxiety. This is because pets trigger the release of oxytocin and reduce the release of cortisol – the stress inducing hormone. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed… go find puppy cuddles!
  2. Pets can smell existing medical conditions. Animals have been known to sniff out early signs of illnesses such as cancer, narcolepsy, migraines, diabetes and seizures. They can smell a difference n your body sometimes before you notice any changes. Animals will tend to change their behavior around you suddenly and act different. If you notice a sudden change, a trip to the doctor may be worth it.
  3. Pets force you to live a healthier, more active lifestyle – especially if your preference of pet is a pup. Dogs need to exert energy every day or they will drive you crazy all cooped up in the house. This forces you to get outside almost every single day. Fresh air and sunshine can do so much good for your happiness.
  4. Pets can also help you to socialize and meet new people. Whether you’re at the same dog park every weekend or your pup is super social and wants to say hi to every other dog it passes – your animal is sure to help you meet and interact with people you wouldn’t normally. A puppy is such an easy way to break the ice with another person!

This short list is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the benefits of having a pet. Yes, they are a lot of responsibility and you must make time to take care of them – but they more than make up for it and in their own way, return the favor. Be it in puppy cuddles, kitten kisses or just the sheer fact that they always seem to celebrate you walking through the door, having a pet always brings a smile to your face.