You know them. You love them. You probably have one by your side as you’re reading this. Dogs may be considered “man’s best friend,” but it doesn’t change the fact that pets are a staple in so many lives.

‍

You probably have one. Your best friend almost definitely has one, and for good reason. Just like how a good rug pulls the room together, owning a pet makes your home a bit more home-y.

‍

If a healthy house plant can create a healthier home environment, then pets create a more fun and loving household. Whether they’re in a fish tank or a kennel, here are some powerful benefits of owning a pet.

‍

‍

A Pep (or Pup) in Your Step

‍

‍

Having a pet is an enormous responsibility. Even if it’s just a fish, you must maintain the tank, ensure the filter is working properly, and — most of all — feed it daily.

‍

Taking care of your pets is a financial and emotional commitment. It inevitably takes a chunk out of your savings, but the affection they give you always outweighs any financial capital.

‍

Simply put, owning a pet makes life better. It can be frustrating to clean ANOTHER accident from your dog, but it’s all worth it in the end.

‍

Scientifically speaking, owning a pet can help you lead a healthier life. Som benefits of owning a pet include:

• Decreased blood pressure
• Decreased cholesterol levels
• Weaker feelings of loneliness and anxiety
• Fewer symptoms of PTSD

‍

About 68% of American households have a pet, according to the National Institutes of Health. That means 68% of American households are enjoying the restorative benefits of owning a pet.

‍

Of course, the benefits of owning a pet are not valid substitutes for professional help.  If you need help, seek it. Pets do offer a much-needed shoulder to cry on or someone else to enjoy good times with.

‍

‍

Pick the Right Pet

‍

‍

Contrary to popular belief, there is no one-size-fits-all pet that will work for everyone. Though you might like to believe your Yorkshire terrier is a universally beloved fur ball, the truth is it’s not everyone’s cup of tea.

‍

It’s like picking out a new mattress or a new car: you need to pick the best one for you. It’s also a long-term commitment, so choose wisely.

‍

If you prefer a tidy space free of lint and paw marks on the floor, reptiles or fish might be your best friend.

‍

Before you can enjoy the benefits of owning a pet, you need to buy all the necessary equipment to sustain it. They live and survive in very specific ecosystems so that cage needs to be a small slice of the Amazon rainforest.

‍

Needless to say, getting and maintaining a frog cage is a hefty investment. But it will keep your place of living as spotless as you’d like.

‍

Then there are the big two: dogs and cats, or cats and dogs (this writer prefers the former). Each animal has their own set of quirks and unique behaviors. They can be charming for some, but they can also annoy others to no end.

‍

You already know if you’re a dog or cat person, and there’s no reason to go against the grain. Get that labrador. Welcome that Persian cat into your home. It’s a lot of extra work, but it’s more than worth it in the end.

‍

‍

Healthy Pet, Healthy You

‍

‍

As mentioned earlier, there are several benefits of owning a pet. Though the mere presence of your pomeranian can give you an emotional boost, you still have a ways to go.

‍

Your pets are helping you live a healthier life — why not return the favor?

‍

Owning a pet is like owning a car: they’re your bundle of joy now, but only if you take care of it. Owning a pet is a two-way street of self-improvement.

‍

The solution is pretty simple for dog owners: take them for a walk. Walking your dog is the easiest and most beneficial workout for your dog. Some dog walking benefits include:

• Decreased stress
• Helps prevent obesity
• Improve digestive and urinary health
• Improved mental health

‍

Though these benefits of owning a pet apply to dogs, it’s safe to say you’ll receive a healthy helping of them yourself.

‍

‍

The Cat Conundrum

‍

‍

Cats are a bit different. Cats are historically not as walk-friendly as their canine counterparts, so you have to come up with other ways to exercise. Luckily, we’ve got you covered.

‍

You can try to walk your cat. Buy a harness instead of a collar and let it adjust to the harness before you start the walk. The more comfortable they are, the better.

‍

The popular pet retailer Chewy recommends several workouts for cats, such as catios. Yes, you heard (or read) that right. A catio is an outdoor cat enclosure that lets your cat safely roam the great outdoors.

‍

A catio immerses your cat in a safe but stimulating environment, giving it much-needed fresh air and sunlight. Though catios cost a hefty sum, they are more than worth it if you’re constantly away from home.

‍

Cats come up with all sorts of things to occupy their time, and catios work to stimulate that feline creativity.

‍

Chewy also recommends other cost-friendly measures. Puzzle toys, feather toys, and even string are great sources of exercise for your feline friends. Just make sure the string isn’t attached to some safety hazard.

‍

‍

Achieve a Better You with These Benefits of Owning a Pet

‍

‍

Owning a pet is hard work. But the benefits of owning a pet are leaps and bounds above any financial sacrifice. The benefits of owning a pet go beyond a few cuddles. They act as your confidant, your right-hand (or paw) man as you take on life challenges.

‍

They are always there for you, sad to see you leave for work but rabidly happy to see you come back. For all the benefits owning a pet give you, make sure you meet them halfway by giving them the nutrition and exercise they need.

‍

For many, a pet is their partner in crime, so make sure you both are taking the healthiest step forward. And if you can — adopt, don’t shop.