Have you ever stopped to observe how spending time with your pet changes your entire mood? Be it stroking your dog, tossing a toy to your cat, or just being lazy on the couch, pets somehow just make life more enjoyable. Science explains it perfectly — it’s called oxytocin, which is rather affectionately referred to as the “love hormone.” It is because of this little hormone that we feel attached toward our pets.
Let’s delve more into the reasons behind why animal companionship is so comforting and how it helps you and your pet.
Why is Oxytocin Considered so Unique?
Oxytocin is a crucial bond forming hormone, it is the same hormone responsible for the mother-child bonding experience. What is most striking is that it affects bonds with pets, too! When you hug, play, or even just look at your pet, your body releases oxytocin because the baby animal is inside. In fact, your pet’s body releases oxytocin at the same time. It’s almost like watching a movie and the screen says, “You two were meant to be.”
The Importance of Pets In Our Lives
Many critics including scholars and educationalists claim pets only provide companionship. This, however, is false. Pets improve our health as well and here’s how:
They Help In Combating Solitude
Whatever your perspectives were towards the day, your pet will always receive you without judging and providing utmost love and care.
They Help You Build Connections
Walking your dog or even engaging with fellow pet owners at the playground can serve in creating new relationships.
They Help In Managing Stress
During difficult times, too, there is a primary reason which allows people and pets to retain their bond. Having a pet around provides the sense of stress relief.
Children And Pets: The Cutest Relationship Ever
If you have ever seen kids playing with pets, you can only imagine how special this relationship is. Kids do not have better friends than their pets. Interacting with pets makes kids laugh and forget their worries. Furthermore, it builds compassion and responsibility towards others. These connections turn into memories everlasting in a lifetime.
Cats Are Does Things to Show Affection
Affection can be shown in many ways. For instance, while dogs are loyal companions worldwide, they do not have the only way to express affection. The soft purring, slow blink or gentler nudging are only a few among many of the ways a cat shows love. This, however, is the cat’s way to say ‘I love you’. It might be less voiced but the meaning and depth of the love shared is the same.
Pets as Therapy Animals
Animals have the innate ability to make a person feel extreme joy or love but most importantly, they can be a healing force for many people. Such people who have to deal with mental health issues, such as PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), depression, or even anxiety, often feel at ease due to the presence of a pet. Pets are so effective in making people feel loved and safe that they are even brought in to assist during treatment programs.
Ways to Establish a Strong Bond With Your Pets
If you’re looking to strengthen your bond with your pet even further, consider the following tricks:
Pet Playtime
Pet playtime can include activities like fetch or even running after a laser pointer and is a brilliant way to bond while having fun.
Pet Serenity Session
Even doing nothing and being in the same room/pad can help you and your furry friend feel relaxed and content.
Pet Massage Therapy
Petting or gently rubbing your furry friend's body can be great as a stress relief bonding activity.
Pet Cuddles
You might be speaking a language that your pet can’t ever understand completely, but that does not mean they don’t notice the tone and emotions behind the words.
An Affection That is One Of a Kind
Having pets is unlike any other relationship we can cultivate in life. The only way to describe the affection our pets have for us is to say that they unconditionally and silently engage us in the most beautiful ways.There is always a reminder to pause, absorb what is right in front of you, and find happiness in the commonplace.
Go ahead and give your pet an extra cuddle today. You’ll feel the magic of that special connection, and they will too.