If you’re a pet lover like me, you know that the perfect family needs an animal to be complete. If pressed for a reason, you probably show the latest photos of your dog or cat on your phone.
But he’s so cute, you say. Who wouldn’t want to have such a cute and loving creature around? And if the pictures of an adult cat or dog can’t convince your friends, you try your next weapon: Photos of your pet as a fluffy puppy or kitten. Nobody resists a baby, especially when they’re so fluffy!
But the truth is that you don’t need to use charm to win the argument. Pets can be beneficial for any household – as long as nobody suffers from a severe allergies.
Your pet can keep intruders at bay
A pet can beat any alarm system. Ultimately, households with pets are less likely to be burgled because your furry friend can be intimidating. Indeed, large dogs can be trained for protection. But small breeds and cats can be equally effective in raising the alarm. Additionally, your pet can also protect you from a different type of unwanted guests. You can count on your dog or cat to smell the presence of rodent or bugs inside your home, making it easier to keep the house free of pest. By warning you early, they give you the chance to get in touch with pest control specialists before it is too late. However, if you’ve got a wildlife-friendly garden, you’ll need to train your pet to differentiate between pests and guests!
They decrease the risk of anxiety
Petting your best friend has a therapeutic effect. It actively lowers your blood pressure, helping you to feel more relaxed and centered. As a result, those who struggle with anxiety and depression disorders can combat their issues with the support of a furry friend. What you might not know, though, is that the simple act of petting can also affect your cholesterol, helping to decrease it naturally. In short, pet owners are significantly healthier.
They help your kids to become more responsible
Children often struggle to understand the concept of responsibility. However, letting your child take care of the pet is an excellent way of introducing duties. Admittedly, you need to stick to age-appropriate tasks, as it would be foolish to ask a young child to train their dog or cat fully. However, young children can learn to manage simple jobs for small animals, such as a hamster or a kitten. For instance, you can introduce routines such as feeding the pet. More complex tasks, such as cleaning after the pet, should be left for older children.
You might have to prepare the household for them
Last, but not least, we’ve touched on this point earlier on; having a pet means you have a duty of care to look after the animal. Not only should you maintain their wellbeing and health, but you also have to adapt your household for them. Cats, for instance, can require odor-blocking solutions for the litter box, while dogs can need extra vacuuming. But it’s a small sacrifice in exchange for what you can gain.
There are some small inconveniences to owning a pet. You need to clean after them ( you have to clean up after family members too so it’s not that much of a change!). But ultimately, it’s also the opportunity for your children to learn about responsibilities. Additionally, pets make you healthier and can protect your household from intruders. Next time you met someone who doesn’t want any pet, you’ll know what to say!
Disclosure: Mommy Makes Time receives products in order to conduct reviews. No monetary compensation was provided unless noted otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own. Some posts may contain affiliate links that I receive commission or payment from in exchange for referrals. In the event of a giveaway, the sponsor is responsible for delivery of the prize, unless otherwise noted in the posting. I only recommend products or services I personally use and believe will be a good fit for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 225: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising
