Man's Best Friend

Many people hesitate when they think about getting a pet. I don’t want to take care of an animal, they think. I’ll have to walk it, feed it, and clean up after it. What does it really do for me besides add more work to my life?

It's a fair question. Most people grow up believing that pets depend entirely on us; we care for them, provide for them, and keep them safe. Have you ever stopped to consider that pets might be caring for us as much as we care for them?

Now, not everyone can have a story like Peach, a kitten who helped his 28-year-old owner and hiker survive in the frigid Romanian mountains. Peach curling up beside him as he suffered severe hypothermia, not only giving him warmth but keeping his "faith alive" to continue to fight to live. But the truth is, quite ordinary pets help their owners every single day in ways that go unnoticed because people may not even know how it happens.

Dogs used to take care of hunting, guarding property, and herding. Cats were valued as pest control to protect grain stores, ships, and homes from rodents, so animals have been watching over us from the very beginning. Thus starting the mutually beneficial relationship between man and animal. People provided the cats and dogs with a home and shelter, in return, they made sure the house was safe. Although the big shift from these pets being great hunters to being extremely pampered, it has continued to be a win-win for both. The truth is, with more love and kindness shown to pets, the opportunity for them to do the same for us has risen.

The influence of the human and animal bond has been a recent interest in research because an estimated 68% of U.S. households have a pet, which means that their benefits are seen by many because they are important.  

Modern-day pets provide emotional and mental benefits through things like companionship, which helps with loneliness, anxiety, and stress. If you are coming home from a frustrating day, your cat or dog will be there to provide affection and be a comfort to your stress. Having a furry companion can also provide physical health benefits as they encourage activity, like when you take your dog for a walk or when you play with your pet cat running with strings or their toys. Pets have also proven to lower stress and blood pressure. Having a routine adds structure to your day, like feeding or taking your pet for a walk, showering them, brushing their fur, taking them to the vet, or buying something for your pets. That sense of responsibility to care for another living creature helps your overall well-being.

Every day benefits that go unnoticed include the unconditional affection you get from your pet. Even though you may not always see it, you can feel it, and knowing your pet will be there loving you no matter what provides a support system built on unconditional love, which can go a long way in being the comfort you need in life. Pets also help to socialize with other dog owners could meet at dog parks, or cat owners can meet at the vet, even your non-furry four legged friends can introduce you to new hobbies and friends. Having pets adds you to communities and gives you something to talk about and bond over with anyone, strangers, coworkers, or family members. It expands your social reach. This may seem small but it brings you into a new community focused on caring for others and tat will always end well.

What started as a working relationship, now evolved hundred of years to a daily companion. Your pet can give back more than people initially realize as they will never judge, not criticize but will love you unconditionally. As you nurture your human-animal bond, you will find a reliable friend to always show you compassion. The phenomenon of the relationship is a difficult one to replicate with anyone else, and should be strongly considered as a health benefit.

Our team at getMcare will continue to support you the best way we can. Whether it is with Medicare assistance or a listening ear, our goal is to service our community as we grow. We are always here to help.