Having a pet helps to combat the feeling of loneliness and to experience less anxiety and stress , especially in difficult situations like the one we are now experiencing.
A survey conducted by HABRI (Human Animal Bond Research Institute) for Royal Canin shows interesting results that 85% of pet owners feel less alone when interacting with them. Also that 76% of those surveyed affirm that they manage social isolation better thanks to their pets , and 72% think that the interaction between humans and companion animals is positive for their community. 80% of owners say that their pet makes them feel more accompanied, and 54% admit that it helps them connect with other people.
These data only confirm the results obtained in other studies on the positive effects of living with companion animals, such as those developed by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute, which place special emphasis on the emotional, social and health benefits.
For all the good that animals bring us, we must respect them and take care of them as best as possible . If you don’t have a pet but are seriously considering getting one, we recommend asking yourself a series of questions beforehand. The decision to bring an animal home should never be taken lightly. In this sense, Royal Canin invites us to ask ourselves the following questions:
- Why do I want a pet? As the “You are Responsible” campaign of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food reminds us, there are many reasons, but the most important thing is to always be clear about the responsibility and obligations involved in caring for an animal. When considering having a dog or cat, if we live with more people, it is essential that all members of the household agree.
- Do I have enough time to dedicate to it? Walks, activity, feeding, playing or grooming require dedicating part of our daily routine to pets.
- Can I make a long-term commitment? The life expectancy of companion animals is high, around 10-15 years depending on the species, and it is a fact to assess when making the commitment. And a fundamental part of this responsibility also implies taking care of their health and well-being, taking into account aspects such as veterinary care, food and education.
- Economic forecast. Taking care of pets requires periodic investments in food, regular visits to the vet, specific treatments and other expenses.
At this point, we may have thought better of it and decided not to take the plunge. There is no problem. It is much more sensible not to adopt if we see that we are not going to be able to fulfill the obligations that having an animal entails, than to throw ourselves into the pool without taking into account the repercussions that our act may have. There are not a few animals that end up in a shelter due to the bad decisions of humans.
If, on the contrary, we decide to move on, the next step will be to prepare for their arrival home. Again, Royal Canin, gives us a series of useful tips.
- Think about what your home and lifestyle is like. Each animal and each breed has different characteristics that must be taken into account before deciding which will be the ideal animal for us. For example, if you spend many hours away from home, it might be more advisable to opt for a cat than a dog. In the case of dogs, one aspect to take into account is their exercise needs, which are greater in the case of large dogs. If we take age into account, puppies and kittens require more care and dedication, an important factor in assessing whether an adult animal would be more suitable.
- Always find out about the protector or the breeder. As they remind us in “You are Responsible”, the place where we look for our animal is key, since it can make a difference for the welfare of many other animals; It may involve collaboration with illegal trafficking and mistreatment of animals or support for authorized entities and breeders who carry out their work in a legal and responsible manner. Always remember to inform yourself about the registration number of the zoological nucleus of origin of the animals and about all the animal data (species, breed, date of birth, sex and most important body signs, maximum size that it can reach, life expectancy, character and vitality). It always requires the supporting documentation of the identification and the official documentation (health card or passport) with the vaccines and treatments updated and guaranteed by a veterinarian.
- Find out about the care that the animal will need. Apart from all the information on its characteristics, behavior and health, it is important to take into account what animal will need when arriving at our house (bed, feeder and drinker, litter box and scratching post in the case of cats, toys, protection of the space…).
- Schedule a first visit to the vet. This first visit is key to review the vaccination and deworming and to make a general health check-up. It is also an ideal time for the veterinarian to advise us on the feeding, training and socialization of the animal. Remember, it is important to do a review at least once a year.
