Aside from training, pets need both physical and mental exercise. Whether the former consists of putting them out the back door or going for a 3 hour hike, pets, like humans, will be lazy if you let them. So, why not kill two birds with one stone and set aside some time every day to spend with your pet. Sounds odd, but it’s the perfect excuse to get away from your phone, from the telly, from Facebook and from everything else demanding your attention. This article suggests you should “Be the person your dog (pet) thinks you are.” How does your pet see you? Are you the stressed out woman giving the tellybox in the corner all the attention, or are you the attentive owner who enjoys playing fetch as much as they do?
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There are many benefits to spending quality time with your pet, aside from building a strong relationship with them. Pets are natural mood enhancers, so just being with them can help the stresses of your day ebb away. They help with keeping blood pressure and heart rate in check, as well as helping owners fight depression. Having another creature rely on you and love you without question is truly a gift, so they really do deserve your time. Children who grow up in a house with a cat or dog tend to have less allergies and stronger immunity against, oddly, things like asthma. Then of course, there’s the obvious. Taking your dog (or cat!) for a walk daily works wonders for your health, in terms of fitness, bone strength, flexibility and getting some fresh air into your lungs.
Essentially, there are way more pros than cons when it comes to getting a pet, just make sure to take the time to let them work their magic with your life. Pets aren’t for ignoring, they are a member of the family! Take advantage of their need for attention, and use it to get some much deserved “you” time, whether that be going for a walk, teaching them tricks in the garden or even just having a cuddle in front of Lady and the Tramp!
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