Pets are hugely important members of the family. From dogs and cats to hamsters and rabbits, adding a furry friend to your setup can have a positive impact overall, too. In fact, there are a number of studies that suggest that having a pet can improve both mental health and our overall lifestyle. Pets aren’t just for sharing on Instagram or taking for walks when you have to either: they can make a genuine difference in our lives. 

Of course, pets aren’t for everyone. Some people just don’t like animals. It’s normal and we can’t hold it against them, but they’re most definitely missing out, judging by a number of relatively up-to-date studies that have taken place around the world. While they’re perhaps opting for animal-themed documentaries or enjoying some animal-themed slot games as an alternative option to owning a pet, the rest of us can carry on reaping the rewards from taking in our animal companion and making them a valued member of the family. With a number of studies also suggesting that owning a pet is good for us, it should be a no-brainer as to why your household might be missing a friendly feline face or a cheeky pooch. 

Taking on a pet is a big commitment, though. Let’s take a look at some key reasons as to why it’s a leap worth taking, especially given the undoubted benefits owning a pet can bring to your life.  

Having a pet can improve your mood 

Whether it’s through stress after a long day at work or you’re simply feeling down in the dumps for no particular reason, according to studies, relaxing and playing with a pet increases the level of oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone”, which is what we need to boost our mood and just generally feel more positive about things, while also enabling us to form a bond with our beloved pet and feel more happy and relaxed as a result. Never underestimate the numerous benefits having a simple stroke of your cat or a cuddle with your dog can have. 

A pet can boost your relationship 

Pets bring so much positivity into our lives, and that includes our love lives. While it might seem odd initially, it makes total sense when you really think about it. During a typical relationship, there are obviously times when stressful situations can arise, or you or your partner are simply having a down day. Owning a pet, though, can lower blood pressure and make you and your partner feel happier. Whether it’s a dog or a cat, these types of pets can not only improve your life but also the life of your loved one.

Owning a pet can help your social life 

Admittedly, this particular finding does depend on the animal you own, but dog owners are said to experience a number of social benefits from having a canine companion. After all, dogs are naturally curious about their surroundings, which can, in turn, result in a number of social situations being presented to you, perhaps by fellow dog owners or passers-by who admire your wholesome hound. You might even make some friends as a result of your dog’s constant curiosity, with a 2015 US and Australian study suggesting that pet owners are far more likely to make friends with their neighbors than those who don’t have a pet. 

Other notable benefits of owning a pet are that you’ll feel safer with a big dog by your side, it can bring out the best in your child, and a pet might even help you find love.