Pets as Friends

For many people who own a pet, it is probably their best friend. This concept is difficult for a person who does not own a pet to understand. But the value of owning a pet is gradually realised over years of close association with the animal. During that period, a rapport develops between the pet and its owner, and a friendship develops, just like the way a friendship grows between two people.

Here are some of the benefits of having pets as friends:

Social Support

It has been proven that the presence of pets add meaning to the life of a person. One important factor is that it combats loneliness. Elderly people are often advised to get a pet, and this gives some purpose to the person’s life.

Decreases Stress Levels

Owning a pet reduces the level of stress in the body, just by spending a few moments with your pet each day. This way, chances of heart-related problems and other chronic illnesses become less.

Therapeutic Effect

A pet can have a major impact on a patient’s response to recovery from an illness or major surgery. Similarly, it is quite common for a person suffering from some chronic or terminal illness to be advised to get a pet. The psychological comfort of the pet’s presence gets manifested physically and eases the symptoms considerably, causing some relief for the patient.

Children and Pets

One of the best things you can do for a child is to get them a pet. It teaches them how to be responsible, loving, caring and how to be thoughtful to others. These are important life qualities which can also be applied to adults, as the child grows. Even the unfortunate event of the death of a pet will teach the child about the harsh realities of life and death. The child will never be lonely, with a pet for a friend.

All in all, having pets as friends adds an extra dimension to our existence. Dogs for instance, are the most loving and loyal friends that you could ever wish for. They do not bear grudges, or exhibit selfishness. I would like to conclude by quoting a sticker that I have on the rear window of my car, “The more people I meet, the more I love my dog!”