THE POWER OF PETS

10 Ways Pets Make Life Better

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#1: Pets increase our fitness 
We all know that daily exercise improves our health, and people with pets are generally more active than those without. Exercising with your dog for at least 30 minutes a day keeps them fit and at a healthy weight—and the same goes for you. Rolling around on the floor with your cat and their favorite toy or tossing a ball in the backyard with your dog strengthens your bond, raises your heart rate, and burns calories.
#2: Pets help us connect with others
When you work from home, you may sometimes feel isolated. Fortunately, pets often give us a reason to get out of the house—whether we feel motivated to or not. Taking your pet to public places like the park or a local café provides a built-in conversation starter, since few people can resist stopping to say hello to a cute dog. Pet ownership also helps you meet others who share your love for animals.
#3: Pets provide emotional and mental support 
After a hard day, few things feel better than coming home to a pet who greets you like you’ve been gone for years. Pets help us regulate our emotions through their calm, loving presence. Hugging a dog, stroking a cat’s soft fur, or feeling their warmth can be instantly soothing. Pets are also the best listeners—they never judge or share your secrets. Truly, they’re the most loyal friends we could ask for.
Pets as service dogs provide invaluable benefits to veterans living with PTSD, helping to reduce symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and nightmares while promoting social connection, resilience, and overall life satisfaction.  Demonstrating how the unconditional bond and steady presence of an animal can foster healing and significantly enhance mental well-being—offering comfort, purpose, and hope in daily life.
#4: Pets give us purpose
Pets thrive on routine and rely on us to meet their needs, giving our days structure and meaning. Making sure your pet is cared for provides a reason to get up and get moving, even when you’re not feeling your best. That daily rhythm keeps both you and your pet feeling secure and grounded.
#5: Pets improve our heart health
Research shows that pet ownership is linked to better heart health. In addition to the benefits of regular exercise, studies reveal that pet owners tend to have lower resting heart rates and blood pressure, and experience smaller increases in both during stressful times.
#6: Pets support children’s development
Growing up with a pet teaches kids responsibility, compassion, and empathy. Feeding the dog or cleaning the cat’s litter box builds pride and a sense of accomplishment. Pets also help children understand complex emotions, including loss. Plus, kids who grow up around cats and dogs often have lower rates of allergies and asthma.
#7: Pets keep loneliness at bay
Many people become pet parents for companionship—especially older adults who live alone. The affection of a cat or dog helps reduce feelings of loneliness, and simply petting them fulfills our human need for touch and connection.
#8: Pets provide entertainment
Pets make life more joyful—and often hilarious. Whether it’s a puppy running sideways to get from point A to B, a kitten jumping in the air when startled, a cat chasing a laser light up the wall or a dog with the zoomies their antics bring laughter and lightness to our days. And laughter, after all, is great medicine.
#9: Pets give us a sense of security
A pet’s presence can make you feel safer at home. Even the friendliest dog will alert you to someone at the door or unusual noises, offering reassurance and peace of mind. Many people also feel more comfortable walking outdoors when they have their pet by their side.
#10: Pets make us better people
Through their unconditional love, innocence, and loyalty, pets inspire us to be more patient, kind, and mindful. No matter what’s happening in the world, our pets remind us to slow down, appreciate the present, and cherish every moment with those we love.

Make Every Moment Count
There’s no denying the many ways pets enrich our lives. To thank them, keep them healthy with regular veterinary care and plenty of opportunities to play and socialize. Sadly, our pets don’t stay with us for our entire lives—but we have the privilege of being their whole world. Let us help you give them the best quality of life so you can treasure every moment.

 In loving memory of Gunner...What a beautiful difference one single life made. 

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