Why should you own a pet? Why shouldn't you? While my earnest desire to own a pet stems from the love of anything that demands my attention, they prove to serve many purposes. This week, I've decided to throw four basic reasons in the ballpark as to why you should own one.
1. Mood enhancer and stress reducer![](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20980%20735'%3E%3C/svg%3E)
Whether a dog, cat or a hedgehog, stroking the heads of one of these furry creatures has proven to enhance people's moods as well as reduce depression. Think about cuddling up with your little fella while binge watching a series on Netflix. Buh-bye boyfriend!
2. Forces you to take responsibility
Having a pet means caring for that creature like it's your baby. You have to feed it, bathe it, and take it to the vet at times. If you have a dog, you have no choice but to get up off your bum and walk that pooch. Having a pet is a great way to instill the value of managing responsibilities in kids as well as young adults.
3. You'll have a loving companion to go home to
I don't know about you, but I once had a dog that I would converse with (not my fault I'm an only child). I honestly felt like this dog understood me despite me not being able to hear him speak. I would come home from school, change my clothes and play in the backyard with him until it was time for dinner. He was my best friend really, R.I.P. Spot. Call me crazy, but I strongly believe animals actually understand what you're saying to them and respond by physically interacting with you. Anyone who has pets can relate, I'm sure.
4. Have a laugh
Animals are charming creatures. They're smart, interactive and loving, and if cared for the right way, they'll be of great entertainment and value to you. It's amazing to have your dog or cat play with you, turn over and pretty much ask you to scratch their tummies or even run around the place. It's nice when you can ask your dog to fetch your shoes and he actually does... but not so nice when he decided he wants to eat leather for dinner. Either way, you have something to make you laugh or scream at the top of your lungs. Isn't that just so entertaining?