The 7 benefits of having a pet at home

Living with an animal also brings psychological benefits.

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 just feeding a pet and that it brings us more advantages than disadvantages.

In fact, in Psychology and Mind we echoed certain studies that suggest certain psychological and social psychological and social benefits of living with a cat.. On the other hand, our friends dogs can also help us improve in certain aspects. in certain aspects.

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 therapy with dogs"

And, indeed, we are not misguided: companion animals bring physical and psychological benefits to the whole family.. For this reason, many psychologists recommend adopting an animal to treat certain personal skills, and there are even therapies in which animals are the main resource to treat diseases.

What are the benefits of a pet?

But, could there be clear advantages to sharing life with a faithful pet? Let's see it throughout this article. Here 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 be, for many people, a reason to go outside and get active, a reason to go out and take several walks every day.. Although the main reason for these walks is for the benefit of the pet, its owners also benefit from these outings. Especially important in people who follow a sedentary lifestyle or with little willpower to move.

2. It helps us to do physical exercise

Beyond going out for several walks a day, having a pet can help us to do more intense exercise. more intense exerciseWhether it's spending some time in motion throwing any object at them or exercising intentionally, many dog owners find in their pet the ideal companion to go for a run.

3. It helps us to structure our time

Humans need routine to function properly and to feel secure and confident. If we have a pet, we will be the ones who will provide this daily routine.At the same time, we will also be structuring our days.

4. It helps us to improve our sense of responsibility

Having a living being that depends on us makes us feel useful and responsibleThese characteristics are especially important at a child's age. And many times, these characteristics arise innately; according to the Affinity Foundation study on children and animals, 90% of children would dedicate part of their time to take care of their animal; 80% would give their favorite toy for it and 75% would get up early to walk it.

5. It helps us to 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. Facilitates socialization

Our pet can be the ideal topic of conversation that allows us to break the ice when we meet people we don't know very well, or in those uncomfortable situations of silence. It can also be the bond that allows us to get to know each other, 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; therefore, 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

In view of these benefits, the innumerable advantages that a single animal companion 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, our ability to express our feelings and our relationship with the environment.

Of course, having a pet at home implies a great responsibility. We must think carefully about which animal is the most suitable for the characteristics of our home, and bear in mind that having a pet implies economic costs and constant attention..