Why do we love and care for animals in our own homes? The bond between humans and animals is something that feels like second nature to most. Feeling the unconditional love for your pet and caring for them as one of your own helps people feel purpose and responsibility. For those living alone, a pet can make you feel secure and more comfortable with another sweet soul to take care of. When you ask most people about their pets, they show you pictures and tell you how amazing they are. Regardless of how hard caring for a pet can be, the love you have for your own pet is unconditional.

Although we take care of our pets’ needs, they provide support for us as well in many different ways. Having a pet can decrease stress and improve heart health over time. Having a pet in the house can also teach kids responsibility and learn emotional and social skills. Learning how to help an animal that can’t out right tell you what they need can be a frustrating experience but is very useful to know how to navigate and problem solve. Cuddling your pet can also release hormones that relieve stress in both the human and animal. They can also release hormones that make you tired which is why it is so easy to fall asleep holding a sleeping cat or dog.

I Interviewed Estefani Perez, a senior here at Pitman, to see how she feels about her pets. Estefani has one big dog and one small dog. Luna, a German Shepard and Bambi, her chihuahua. I asked her, “how do your dog’s affect your mood in your daily life?” Her response was very loving towards her dogs.

“My dogs have a way of brightening my mood, especially when I am not feeling well or am sick, they always stay on my bed with me and keep me company. I do a lot for them, but I love taking care of them with whatever they need, my sister and I have always been the closest with them.” – Estefani Perez

I asked Nicolas Hensley, a senior here at Pitman, “how do your cats impact your life?” 

“My cat Remi has a very strong and positive impact on my life, and I think everyone should have a cat in their life. I have five cats, but I take the most care of one and my sisters take care of the others. I always annoy my cats, but I am very close with them and wouldn’t trade them for any other pet.” – Nicolas Hensley