My social media has been loaded with pictures of our new dog. His name is Baxter, and he is so cute! He is what’s called a Teddy Bear breed. He is part Maltese, Shi Tzu, and Bichon Frise. He’s just a puppy now. When our other dog passed away on New Years Eve, my mom did not think we would get another dog, but we did. It won’t replace the mark Gracie has left on our lives, but it will lighten the pain a little. We’ve only had him for about two weeks now, but since then I can see everyone in my family much happier. Sure, he’s still a puppy so of course we get mad at him when he pees on the floor or poops when he’s not supposed to. But overall, everyone seems happier, including myself. Having a pet is great for your mental health. I’ve done my own research, and I’m going to take from my own personal experience and others I’ve asked for feedback.

Your animal can sense your sadness and knows when you need a mental health moment.

Animals are really keen to human emotion. This is what I love about animals. On one particular sad night, both my dog and my cat followed me everywhere until I eventually just sat on the couch and cried. I don’t even remember what happened or why I was so sad, but both of them came up on the couch and sat right beside me. Another example is when I came home the night that one of Craig’s cats died that I loved. Both of my cats followed me around that night, and they don’t usually approach people, especially Luna, but she followed me from a distance, but they knew something was wrong with another cat.

They’re actually great listeners.

One of my friends said that she sits and talks to her cat when she needs to vent and when she is angry about something. It’s better to vent your anger out on something that will listen rather than to take it out on another human being. Sure, your cat may be mocking you on the inside or may not understand what you’re saying, but just talking it out and getting things off your chest will make you feel better.

Cuddling with your pet daily can actually make you feel better.

I’ve read this about humans, but it applies to your pet. Cuddling with your pet releases “oxytocin" (not to be confused with OxyContin); oxytocin is the “cuddling chemical.” It makes you feel better and makes you destress. The studies over whether dogs or cats are less stressful are inconclusive. One website did say that a cat was less stress because they are calmer and less maintenance. But another website said that a dog reduced stress because of its attachment and affection for humans. I do agree with both though.

Pets, especially dogs, can encourage physical activity, which is great for your health.

Dog walking is a great way to get exercise, which is good for your health! My sister will run with her dog because Elsa is such a high energy dog, and she likes going for walks or runs with Lydia. Cats don’t necessarily like walks or necessarily being outside (at least this applies to my cats), but I’ve seen some who will take their cats on a leash and take them out to walk. This mostly applies to dogs! Sometimes when you need a little fresh air, so does your dog; so take it out for a walk! It’ll be good for both of you.

Animals are good for the soul.

Why do you think that there are therapy dogs or pet rooms for college students with exams? Veterans with PTSD work really well with therapy dogs. One of my friends dogs was a service dog for a blind family, it is the friendliest and loving dog I have ever known, except when it thunderstorms! They have pets come into my nursing home all the time for the residents there to come pet them, and it is so neat when you see the smile on their faces when a dog comes.

As you can see, having a pet is good for your health. If you don’t have one or can’t get one, you’re free to come cuddle with Baxter anytime. He’s so friendly and affectionate. I am in love already. He won’t replace what Gracie left on me, but like I said, he does ease the pain a little.