Pets as a Coping Mechanism
When I was about seven-years old, I begged my dad to let me get a kitten. I pulled all the shots - told him it would teach me responsibility, said I would do all the food, litterbox, brushing, etc. For a year, he didn’t budge. Then, I’m not sure if my mom convinced him or what, but he agreed, and we went to the shelter where I found Sparky.
Now, I know everyone says this about their pet, but Sparky really was the best! He was playful all through his 10 years of life and was loyal to me. Also, this cat never gained weight (he was healthy though, I promise). He had to be the lankiest, longest cat ever.
One thing Sparky would do, that I hear is actually pretty uncommon for cats, is notice when I was upset. Whenever I was crying, he would leave his catnap spot and run over to me, rubbing against me, trying to get me to pet him. At the time, I was annoyed. “Really Sparky? I’m the one that’s upset, and you’re trying to get me to make you feel better?” Little did I know that petting your furry friend is actually a great way to cope with whatever is going on. Sparky was more intuitive and smart than I was at that moment.
For a while, researchers didn’t think about the effect pets can have. However, recent studies have shown that pet owners are less likely to deal with depression than those without pets. When in stressful situations, pet owners are more likely to have lower blood pressure. Furthermore, when you play with a pet, you get a dopamine and serotonin boost, which can help promote a sense of calm and relaxation. With this, pets can fulfill the basic human need for touch - when stressed or anxious, petting or playing with a pet can quickly calm you down and soothe you. You are also less lonely with a pet around (Lundgren, K., Robinson, L. & Segal, R., 2021).
So, do you have a pet? If you do, you know how valuable they can be for your mental health. If you don’t have a pet, are you at a time in your life where it would be possible to get one? What does your space look like? If you have a large backyard, a big dog would work, but a small apartment is great for a cat or rabbit. If you aren’t around all day, you might want a lower-maintenance pet like a cat. Do you have any allergies? Remember that when looking at dogs that shed a lot, long-haired cats, etc.
Somehow, Sparky knew he could help me, even if I didn’t quite understand. He was a very available coping mechanism anytime I needed it, and in return, he received some pretty great pets. It may seem counterintuitive to love on something else when you feel down, but just try it and see!
Reference: Lundgren, K., Robinson, L., & Segal, R. (2021). The Health and Mood-Boosting Benefits of Pets. HelpGuide. Retrieved from https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/mood-boosting-power-of-dogs.htm#.
Challenges/Points:
Pets are an invaluable coping mechanism - they decrease depression rates and loneliness, boost dopamine and serotonin, and promote calm and relaxation.
Where you live, how often you are home, and allergies all affect the kind of pet you can have.
Evaluate your current situation. If you have a pet, try to spend more time with them this week. If you don’t have one, is it possible for you to get one?
Questions:
Do you currently have a pet?
What is your dream pet?
Have you felt the aforementioned benefits of owning a pet in the past?
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