By Amy Davis
A year ago, the world was starting to try to understand a new global threat—Covid-19. Within a few weeks, the whole situation blew up into a pandemic. Countries shut down their borders, countless businesses were forced to close and millions of workers worldwide started working from home.
It was a terrifying time for everyone. Things are still far from going back to normal even now that we know more about Covid-19.
Pets are an extremely important part of our lives, as mentioned in SmartCatLovers, and amidst all the loss and suffering, there is a silver lining—pet owners have had enough time to connect with their pets.
How Covid-19 has created stronger emotional connections between pet owners and pets
In times of uncertainty, people turn to the things that bring them comfort. This is usually food, exercise, material things and other people.
However, with the restrictions on movement and social interactions, some of these options have been severely limited. It is a massive part of why many people have turned to their pets in these uncertain times.
In fact, many people who previously had no pets got one during this period. Others just added on to what they already had.
Studies show that having pets has numerous health benefits for pet owners. These include:
Lower blood pressure.
Lower stress levels. Just a few minutes of petting or cuddling with your pet is said to increase oxytocin levels in your body, which is a hormone that makes you feel happy.
More chances of social interaction with other pet owners; even when you can't physically meet, online chat forums can help you feel connected to the outside world.
Increased physical activity, such as when walking or playing with your pet - helps you get some daily exercise, especially now that most people are spending a lot of time seated in front of a computer. It's a great way to lower your cholesterol levels and stay healthier in the long term.
Increased feelings of comfort and less loneliness - pets are always happy to see you no matter how bad your day has been, and you can snuggle and enjoy the closeness.
Pets can help you to improve your immune system. Since they are carriers of different pathogens, your immunity will grow stronger over time, and you'll get sick less often. It is very beneficial to children as they grow up.
Some pets, like dogs, can make your home feel safe. It is essential now that most people are spending most of their time at home.
If you have children, letting them take care of pets can teach them essential life skills. They can learn how to be responsible at a young age and patience because pets can frustrate you sometimes. Pets can also help them develop cognitive skills faster.
Did you know that your pet can also sniff out cancer in your body? Dogs have been shown to accurately detect early cancer stages in your body, helping you get a diagnosis and treatment before it gets serious.
During this Covid-19 period, the benefits of getting pets have been glaringly obvious to many people. All over the world, more pets are being adopted and fostered like never before. People now have the time and resources to ensure that their pets are well cared for at home.
Also, they are less busy, so they can dedicate themselves to their pets while reaping many benefits in return. Most people say that their pets are the ones constant 'keeping them sane' during this period. Covid-19 has created stronger emotional connections between pet owners and pets in a way that has never been seen before but needs to continue for everyone's sake.
About the author: Amy Davis is a pet lover who has two cats, one dog, three rabbits, two guinea pigs, a rat, and a beautiful macaw. She loves writing about everything pet-related and spends as much time as she can sharing her personal experiences on her blog. https://www.SmartCatLovers.org