Dear America: You need a household pet

As we become more aware of the role mental health plays in our development as people, we need to look for answers to the perplexing question of mental health. One of the large ones that we have started to understand is that household animals positively impact mood, improve heart health, and dramatically improve one’s mood and well-being.

“There’s not one answer about how a pet can help somebody with a specific condition,” explains Dr. Layla Esposito. 

Most pets promote healthy habits such as walking or jogging. The companionship of a pet helps reduce anxiety and makes them feel as if they are a real person to whom the owner can communicate and talk. Many statistics back this information up; for example a therapy dog was brought into a nursing home for patients who suffered from dementia.

Among pet owners, a strong majority (86%) said their pets have a mostly positive impact on their mental health. Dog owners (87%) and cat owners (86%) were equally likely to say so.

Pets are not limited to just the common dogs, cats, fish. There are a plethora of animals to choose from including guinea pigs, hamsters, hedgehogs. You can get an animal that fits your personality, lifestyle, and personal needs.

For example if I wanted an animal that required minimal care and maintenance, a goldfish would be appropriate. They require much less care then a large dog that requires care and supervision most of the day and they cost money to get that care if you work long hours or if you just don’t have the money or ability to provide care for the dog.

If you still want a furry friend that does not take much care during the day and can stay in the house for long periods of time, get a cat because they are able to clean themselves and go to the bathrooms in a litter box. If you want a caged animal that cannot run around the house by themselves I would recommend getting a guinea pig. Guinea pigs are amazing because they are not allowed around the house until you let them out of their cage and they also live about “five to seven years on average.”

Since being responsible for another life is a large responsibility, it can get people ready for future duties. The first duty is having more human life to take care of such as a child. For young couples who plan on having kids or don’t want commitment to a full on baby, owning a pet is a great way to start caring for something.

In an article written by Mark Traves in Forbes, “Owning a pet can provide a meaningful alternative to having children— offering hope, solace and a sense of fulfillment.”

Pets are also an awesome addition to the family and you can choose how long you want a pet too by getting a dog which usually lives 10-14 years depending on the breed and size of the dog you get which is the perfect timeline for a new family.

America, you now have the reasons; the only thing left is for you to go get a pet. You’ll be so much better if you do.