14 Reasons to Love Your Pets Even More

Pets are forever friends with infinite benefits. You may not realize it, but your pet is always there for you. It’s time to recognize your pet’s dedication. Time to reward him or her for the hard work and cuddles. As we celebrate National Pet Day, we bring you 14 reasons to love your pet.

1. Pets make you happy.

A photo posted by Sauerkraut (@thesauerkrautkitty) on Mar 28, 2016 at 11:32am PDT

Living with pets will make you a happier human being. The more time you spend with your pet, the happier you become. They bring more meaning to your life. Who doesn’t love that?

2. They keep you active.

A post shared by Dogs Of Instagram (@lnsta_dogs) on May 15, 2018 at 9:07am PDT

Many pets love to run, walk and wander. That’s why having pets around will keep you active. Dog owners, for example, walk 79% more every day.

3. And keep you healthy, too.

A photo posted by June (@junethekitty) on Jul 5, 2015 at 10:11am PDT

Because having pets encourages you to be constantly active, you’ll enjoy the health benefits. Your constant companions can help lower your blood pressure, cholesterol, and sugar levels.

4. They make you smarter.

A photo posted by Atchoum (@atchoumfan) on Feb 26, 2016 at 9:51am PST

Raising pets isn’t a walk in the park. You’ll learn a lot along the way. You’ll become wiser because of your experiences.

5. Pets bring out the best in you.

A photo posted by Rukas - I'm a cat (@rukasthecat) on Jul 20, 2015 at 1:06pm PDT

You feel good when someone needs you. You feel more responsible, mature and loving. Simply put, pets bring out the best in you.

6. And help you develop emotional intelligence.

A photo posted by Tania Ahsan (@maya_on_the_move) on Feb 6, 2016 at 8:38am PST

Studies show that people who raise pets have a deeper sense of empathy. Taking care of your fur babies will deepen your emotional intelligence. Ever wonder why you can easily tell when something is wrong with your pet? That’s EQ.

7. Pets boost your confidence.

A photo posted by Pudge (@pudgethecat) on Dec 14, 2015 at 12:25pm PST

Want to feel more confident? Then raise a pet. According to the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, pet parents have higher levels of self-esteem and sense of belonging.

8. So you gain more friends.

A photo posted by Kitten Foster Mom (@myfosterkittens) on Apr 3, 2016 at 9:04am PDT

Self-confidence and a more meaningful existence result in more social connections. No wonder strangers love to connect with you when you’re out with your pet. Yup, pets help you attract more friends.

9. Pets help you get through tough times.

A photo posted by Corgnelius & Stumphrey (@corgnelius) on Feb 14, 2016 at 3:05pm PST

Animals can sympathize and empathize. They offer emotional support. That's why people recover faster from stressful, often traumatic experiences when pets are around.

10. They make you calmer.

A photo posted by Simba the Shih Tzu 🐶 (@pawsofsimba) on Jan 21, 2015 at 12:33pm PST

Another benefit is reduced anxiety. The simple act of stroking your pet sends signals to your brain to produce more oxytocin and serotonin - hormones that cause you to feel more relaxed.

11. And help relieve stress.

A photo posted by BuBu The Chinchilla (@cute_bubu) on Nov 10, 2014 at 5:52am PST

And because you’re more relaxed and peaceful, your body produces lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Showing affection towards your pet also boosts dopamine, also known as the happy hormone.

12. They bring order to your life.

A photo posted by Roswell (& Rask) (@roswell_the_cat) on Nov 4, 2015 at 5:00am PST

Nurturing pets can be tough work. You need to be disciplined and determined. Establishing habits — daily walks, eating routines, and vet appointments can be taxing. But once you get the hang of it, you'll be more organized and productive.

13. And help you build better, healthier relationships.

A photo posted by Hyperion, Helios & Abaddon☀️🐱 (@hyper_n_helios) on Feb 10, 2016 at 7:11pm PST

Rough seas make skillful sailors. Similarly, when you raise a pet, you learn how to nurture healthier relationships with family and friends.

14. Pets will never leave you. So, Happy National Pet Day!

A photo posted by Disco 🐶 (@discodox) on Mar 23, 2016 at 11:01am PDT

Nobody wants to be alone. Pets offer companionship—they’ll stay with you until the end. That’s why pet owners are less likely to suffer depression and mental problems linked to loneliness.