For The Love of Pets!

Photo from Gracie's Doggie Delights used with permission. Picture includes Gracie, a young blond woman with a disability who owns thriving dog treat company. She is sitting on park bench with her 3 miniature schnauzers. They are surrounded by green grass.

April 11th is National Pet Day. It is an unofficial holiday that was created to encourage people to appreciate the role that pets play in our lives. It’s also a day meant to bring awareness to all the animals currently living in shelters and in need of a home.

If you’ve ever had a pet, you know first-hand how much they can enrich your life. They make us feel loved and needed. They make us laugh with their antics and unique personalities. They give us a reason to get out of bed and get moving or slow down and read a book with a furry friend.

For people with intellectual disabilities, a pet can mean much more. They can provide comfort for someone who struggles with symptoms of anxiety or PTSD; be a friend for a person who is lonely or depressed; or empower someone who has social anxiety. Some children with autism are better able to interact with pets than people.

The Benefit of Pets

Many pet owners are aware of the physical and mental health benefits of having a pet, but it’s only recently that studies have begun to scientifically explore those benefits. Pets can reduce stress, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve cardiovascular health. In fact, studies have shown that:

Pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression than people without pets.
People with pets have lower blood pressure in stressful situations than those without pets.
Playing with a dog, cat, or other pet can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which have a calming effect.
Pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels (indicators of heart disease) than people without pets.
Heart attack patients with pets survive longer than those without.
Pet owners over age 65 make 30 percent fewer visits to their doctors than those without pets.

Photo of a young man with an intellectual disability wearing a long sleeve striped shirt and holding a pet snake over his shoulders and arm.

Pet ownership is a commitment

Aside from all the benefits of having a pet, it’s important to remember that a pet isn’t a miracle cure for any mental or behavioral health issues someone is experiencing. It is only beneficial and comforting for someone who loves and appreciates animals and has the time and money to keep them happy and healthy.

Even if someone loves animals, owning a pet is a huge commitment that will last throughout the animal’s lifespan. That could be 10 – 20 years, depending on the animal and its age when adopted. And when the pet dies, there is the grief and mourning of losing a beloved companion.

Other considerations before adopting a new pet include:

Pets cost money. Food, veterinary care, licenses, toys, bedding – the cost of pet ownership can add up quickly.

Pets need time and attention. Dogs need daily exercise to be calm and well-balanced. Additionally, they can only be left alone for a limited amount of time. Cats can be left for longer if they have food, water, and a litter box, but you shouldn’t leave them alone for days at a time.

Pets can be destructive. Some cats are prone to shredding upholstery or curtains. Some dogs will chew shoes, socks, furniture, or any number of items around the house. This is especially true for puppies and young dogs, as well as animals who are left alone without stimulation or exercise for long periods of time.

Pets require responsibility. Most pets, regardless of species, size, or breed, are capable of inflicting injury if not handled responsibly by their owners. It’s important to be aware of the potential danger to you and to others.

A pet can be more than a dog or cat. There are also rabbits, reptiles, snakes, birds, and fish, just to name a few. It’s always important to choose a pet that suits a person’s needs, abilities, and lifestyle.

How to Celebrate National Pet Day

If you don’t have a pet:
- Volunteer at a local shelter, or donate food, blankets, and toys.
- Help a friend with their pets.
- Adopt a pet.
If you do have a pet:
- Go through your pet’s toys and throw away any that are no longer safe.
- Verify when vaccinations are due and make an appointment, if needed.
- Give your pets extra love and attention, playing with them or taking them on a long walk. And of course, don’t forget about treats!