It is fantastic to think that our fur babies can play such an important role in maintaining our mental health. Whether you are a cat lover, dog lover or you have a pandemonium of parrots, you may not realise the positive effect they have on your life.
Introducing Goofy and Eric
So, on a personal level I am lucky enough to have a pair of canine comforters – Goofy a streetwise Jack Russel of an unknown age, we don’t really know if she is 16 or 17 but she certainly is a tough old girl. Eric, well he is a 4 year old bouncing ball of chaos, a cross between a terrier and a spaniel with all the best and worst bits of both!!
What I do know is that no matter how my day has gone, getting home to these two mutts can make the world seem a much better place. Wagging tails and happy faces never fail to make me smile.
What do pets do to help our mental health?
It is reported that pets help us with many issues including:
- Depression: Even just stroking your pet can help you relax. Having a pet can give you a real sense of purpose and achievement.
- Becoming more social: Getting outside and walking a dog can introduce you to a whole new group of people. This social interaction can help with keeping socially connected.
- Loneliness: Having a pet can be an excellent form of companionship for people in later life and those who life alone.
- ADHD: Children with ADHD can benefit in many ways by having a pet. They can help with feeding, walking and bathing which teaches them to plan and be responsible. They can also burn off excess energy by walking a dog or playing with a kitten. Having a pet is said to help children with ADHD and building their self-confidence.
For more information please follow the following link:
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/a-to-z/p/pets-and-mental-health
Pets as Therapy
Pets as Therapy is a charity established in 1983. It is quite amazing the effect that their volunteers and their pets have on the local communities.
Their volunteers (along with their pets) visit residential homes, hospitals, hospices, schools, day care centres and prisons. These visits bring joy, comfort and companionship to people who appreciate being able to touch and stroke a friendly animal.
If you would like more information about the Pets as Therapy charity please follow the following link: