The Emotional Benefits of Pets
Our Ivy just turned 3, and even though she’s only been with us a short time we couldn’t imagine life without her.
Even Jeff, who really had to be talked into a dog (and wasn’t very enthusiastic when she came home), has come around 110 percent. In fact, Jeff is really Ivy’s person a lot of the time. She follows him around everywhere and lays at his feet when he’s working from home. He loves it.
There’s no shortage of studies and articles out there about the mood-boosting benefits of pets or how dogs help emotional well-being. We agree at the Ratterman household.
Back in November, Molly fell off her scooter and busted her lip so bad we thought she might need stitches. Thankfully she didn’t, but she did break two teeth and bruise herself up pretty good. Ivy stood by her side, actually laid right next to her, as she recovered. It was really sweet and I know Molly was cheered by it.
I think dogs have this sense, an internal meter, that tells them they’re helping their people.
Through COVID, Ivy has given us something to do when we’re bored at home. We’ve had some outdoor playdates with Ivy’s dog friends and she’s given us a reason to get out of the house to walk regularly.
She’s also provided company and companionship to us as we navigate through this really rough year. She’s brought us together with neighbors as we walk the neighborhood and we now know by sight (and some by name) the other 30-something people who walk their dogs in the mornings.
I’ve even gotten private messages on Facebook and Instagram and via text from people who are looking at bringing a dog into their lives.
I’ve talked before about how Ivy is our first family dog. Don’t tell Jeff but she probably won’t be our last.
Everyone needs to go on their own journey to find the right dog for them.
I knew I wanted a specific breed; others prefer pound puppies. All dogs have the same innate ability to help their people and provide both comfort and joy to entire households.
Do you have a furry kid at your house? I want to hear more!
