As an animal lover, you’ve long understood the need to have one in your life. They are cute and cuddly and fluffy and living, breathing de-stressors. Looking after one is a responsibility you take on with pride because you couldn’t imagine your life with your friend.
Well, you’ll be glad to hear there’s another string to an animal’s bow: they’re self-esteem boosters. Yep, a dog or a cat or whatever you choose will make you a stronger, more confident person. All it takes is to understand why to get the most out of the relationship.
Here are a handful of the factors.
Prevent Loneliness
Feeling lonely is terrible, especially at certain times of the year. Is there anything worse than being alone during the holidays? Thankfully, you never have to be with a furry companion. Because they’re always around, there is an atmosphere and an ambiance in the house. Plus, there is someone to talk to and do stuff with during the day and at night. Going for a walk is a prime example. However, cats are roamers so they may not stick around all of the time. Better to choose a dog as it will remain loyal from the very beginning.
Encourage Social Activity
You’re in the park minding your business when another canine approaches. After a while, the owner will introduce himself/herself too. Before you know it, you’re in the middle of a conversation and have a new friend. And, it doesn’t stop there as this can happen on multiple occasions. You may even start the interaction as you feel confident after doing a handful of times. Just be careful of strays (dogs) as Hupy and Abraham's personal injury attorneys say dog bites are a real threat. Still, the majority of pets and their owners are friendly and willing to engage in a healthy manner.
Promote Health And Wellbeing
Owners have to exercise at least once a day as their pet needs the activity too. Dogs, in particular, are pretty needy. Without at least one long walk a day, they will get antsy and lash out. The good thing is this means your health will benefit. Not only will you start to lose weight, but the muscles will tone up also. As the saying goes, to look good is to feel good. And, it’s not only a catchy motto – exercising helps to release mood-inducing chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin.
Help From An Early Age
It isn’t only the adults who benefit from interacting with animals; kids profit also. Children who are around pets from an early age don’t suffer from self-esteem or loneliness issues as much according to researchers. A dog, for example, helps them to develop emotional intelligence and to understand concepts more clearly. The intrinsic nature of the relationship sticks with kids throughout their life, so these skills never fade. So, if there is one reason to get a puppy, this is the one.
There are plenty of ways to boost your self-esteem without a pet, but would it be as fun?
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