The Importance Of Pets

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Karey Thomas Professor Emily Brienza-Larsen English 121 9 May 2014 Friends with Benefits- The Importance of Pets “Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet.” ― Colette. Humans have shared a unique relationship with animals since ancient times, and today, that same love affair continues. Pet ownership continues to be on the rise and more people are jumping on the pet bandwagon. What is so special about the human-animal connection and why is it so important? Besides providing tremendous companionship, having a pet reaps incredible health and psychological benefits. The advantages of having an animal are endless. Everyone should have a pet, and those who don’t are missing out. Pets make us happy. Pets make us healthy. Pets are good for us. Ask anyone why they own a pet and you are likely to get a handful of positive responses. However, the most common answer usually relates to companionship. Pets are excellent companions and loyal friends. Regardless of our human faults and characteristics, animals are always happy by our side. They do not judge, and love us unconditionally. When we wake up with morning breath and bed head, they are there. When we are feeling grumpy or sad, they are there. They don’t care what we wear, where we live, or the car we drive. Animals are part of our family, and a forever friend to a child or the lonely. They give us a confident feeling of worth; sometimes when others cannot, and accept us for who we really are. Not only do pets make excellent companions, they provide a number of proven physical and psychological health benefits for people. A growing number of studies indicate people who “connect with a critter” tend to enjoy a higher quality of life compared to those without... ... middle of paper ... ...idence. Children are constantly being evaluated and rated on behavior, grades, social skills, appearance, and etc... However, when a child bonds with a pet they are able to be comfortable in their own skin; able to let their guard down. Being accepted by an animal enables a child to love and respect themselves. When this occurs, a child is happier, does better in school, and is more compassionate toward others. Having a pet has an enormous effect on people’s lives. No longer are they just companions; they are an essential part of the family. Having a pet promotes health and wellness for individuals across the lifespan. If you’ve ever loved a pet or been blessed with the love of a pet, you know the joy they bring. The mystery behind the human-animal connection isn’t fully understood, but this unique relationship proves to nurture us in ways that nothing else can.

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