Reasons To Love Your Pet This Valentine’s Day

The best valentines have four paws and a tail–you don’t need a professional pet sitter to teach you that. If you’re a pet owner, then you already have a valentine, whether or not you have a human sweetheart. It’s so easy and natural to love your pet that you probably don’t need to stop and think of exactly why your cat, dog, or other furry friend is so precious to you. And of course, whatever your reasons are to love your pet, they are good reasons! But just why are our pets so cherished and adored? Here are some of the top motivations for loving your sweet fur baby.

You Love Your Pet Because He/She Challenges You To Learn and Grow

When we live or work with dogs, cats, and other furry companions, we are frequently called upon to understand animal behavior. Whether or not we are actively working to train our pets, we are constantly communicating with them, and we work to understand what’s happening with them both physically and mentally, so that we can understand their behavior and what signals they’re sending us.

You can learn more about the psychology of your pets by reading blogs such as Companion Animal Psychology.

… Because She Keeps You Active

For animal owners—especially the owners of active, outdoor animals like dogs or horses—exercise is a necessary part of daily life. Our pets need exercise, and we can’t just send them to trot down a trail all alone. So, we head out with them to share their outdoor adventures. This enriches our lives by “forcing” us to get outside and get active! What a fantastic gift and improvement to our overall quality of life. Be sure to thank your pet for this gift the next time you go out together.

… Because You’re Never Alone

A pet is a constant companion in a society where so many people suffer from loneliness. Most pets are in our homes with us the majority of the time. Many pet owners talk to their pets when they’re alone together. This article explains why talking to your pet is beneficial to you and your health.

You Love Your Pet Because He Teaches You Compassion

This Washington Post article discusses how pets help children to become empathetic people. Our animals require our attention and care. Through meeting their needs and nurturing them, we naturally develop greater compassion for our pets—and this compassion follows us into the rest of our lives, improving the quality of our relationships and social ties.

… Because Snuggles Reduce Depression and Anxiety

It’s true! When you pet your cat or dog, your brain releases a chemical called oxytocin, which occurs naturally in mammals to promote maternal care. When oxytocin is released in your brain, your breathing and heart rate can slow down, and stress hormones are inhibited. You can calm down and literally breathe easy, thanks to the love of your animal companion. Check out this Boston Globe article to learn more about animals and oxytocin.

You Love Your Pet Because He Taught You to Love

After reading the reasons given above, this much is obvious: our pets help us to grow into more compassionate and empathetic people. They give us their constant time and attention, asking for little in return. Their love for us, and loyalty to us, is given unconditionally. It may just be the most true love we’ll ever encounter in our lives.

If that isn’t a reason to love and adore the furry friends in your life, then I don’t know what is.

The pet sitters at Boulevard Bark love and adore your pets as if they were our own. Show your pet some love by bringing quality pet care into your home. Contact us to set up a free initial consultation!