Highland vet backs belief that pets can be good for our mental and physical health
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It is now more than two years since we first heard of coronavirus, writes Alison Laurie-Chalmers.
With the pandemic continuing to affect all of us, it can sometimes be hard to see light at the end of the tunnel. During these difficult times finding any positives can sometimes be hard. However, throughout all this time, our pets have continued to be there for us.
There are many positives about having a pet. One of the main things they can do is improve our mental health just by being there and by being cared for by us.
According to a new study, walking with your dog is not only great for physical fitness, but is also beneficial for owners’ mental health. Going for a lovely, brisk walk with your faithful friend can be an uplifting experience.
Owners felt their mood lifted when they felt they were also making their pet feel happier too. Some walks that are normally busy with summer tourists are often blissfully quiet in the winter months.
So now can be a great time to explore new walks in different areas. Also, it is a chance to take a companion along who perhaps doesn’t now have a pet but misses company and walking with a dog.
Now, more than ever, it is easy to feel very isolated. Our pets give us the company and comforting presence we need when we can’t meet up with family and friends. They are always there to talk to, and to comfort us, no matter what.
Our pets are a reason to get motivated as they are our responsibility. Looking after and being responsible for something other than ourselves gives us something other than our worries and ourselves to focus on. Taking care of a pet gives us some purpose in life, and this can be a big help in getting us up and on with the day ahead.
Daily care, feeding and outdoor exercise are all routines that our pets need, and these activities help keep our minds and bodies active. Keeping to a set routine and schedule every day gives some healthy structure to our lives.
We owe it to our pets to take good care of them and give them a happy, enriched, healthy life. The act of taking care of a pet can in turn make us feel useful and needed.
Having a loyal pet can also reduce stress. Some pets can be really calming, in fact 'Therapet' assistance dogs are used to support patients in hospitals and in care home situations and to support students in universities, as just by being with them creates a feeling of calmness.
Consider carefully though, if you are considering acquiring a new pet, that you have the capacity for it and can cope financially. Purchasing a pet should never be an impulsive act.
Sadly, pet rescue shelters receive thousands of unwanted and abandoned animals each year and these are often the result of an ill-considered decision. It is important to remember that pet ownership is a huge responsibility.
Also, with so many changes going on life currently may be disruptive and this must be carefully considered too. It is important to thoroughly research the basics of pet care before acquiring any new pet, to ensure you have the capacity to meet their needs.
Take the time to research the species or breed you are interested in before bringing them into your home, so you are sure your choice will be appropriate for you and your lifestyle.
Our pets give us so much, but these are all very important questions to ask yourself.
Alison Laurie-Chalmers is a senior consultant with Crown Vets
