Since the pandemic began in 2020, more than 23 million American households, nearly 1 in 5 nationwide, have adopted a pet dog or cat. This recent data was released by The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) from a nationally representative poll. This sudden rise of pet adoptions could be attributed to many people feeling lonely and needing companionship during the lockdowns.
It’s no secret that taking care of an animal does come with great responsibility. You have to feed it, train it, and in some cases wash and walk it. But pet ownership does come with several mental health benefits. Let’s examine how owning a dog, cat, goldfish, or other pet can benefit your state of mind.
They Help Reduce Stress
If you’re always under a lot of stress, having a pet around could help alleviate that. Research has shown that our interaction with animals lowers blood pressure and decreases levels of the stress-related hormone called cortisol. There are even some studies that show pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression than non-owners.
Enjoying a fun game with a cat, a dog, or any other pet can increase levels of serotonin and dopamine. These are two chemical neurotransmitters that help you to remain calm and become more alert.
Pets Provide Much-Needed Companionship
The recent rise in pet adoptions during the pandemic clearly shows the need for companionship for people, especially those who live alone. Having something around you who depends on you to care for them makes a person feel needed. It could help take your mind off your everyday problems. The affectionate touch of a furry dog or a purring cat could provide you with the much-needed companionship that you need.
