I have never thought that one day I would own a cat, but I think that was
one of the best decisions I made in my life. It seems to be a bit crazy to some people who never had a pet in their household as a child or an adult. To me I have always been fascinated by all animals around me; cats, dogs, squirrels, fish, birds, and you name it.
Those domestic and wild animals can have a huge impact on our daily life and well-being. Also, we could improve our communication and listening skills by only listening to what all those creatures have to teach us If we pay attention to them and mother nature.

They all do in a silent and loving mode without judging humans!

It is up to us to take the time to listen to mother nature and all living beings with all the secrets that can be learned from them to improve our life.
Lately, I ran into an article on the subject and would like to share with you the benefits of owning a pet.

 Article found in Chopra Center.
4 Benefits of Owning a Pet

Animals can be some of the best teachers in life, if you simply pay attention to the way they live, love, and interact with the world around them.

They possess an incredibly grounding energy that:

  • Teaches us how to stay present (they’re rarely worried about the future or tormented by the past)
  • Provides unconditional love
  • Heals hearts and souls

This is the reason why therapy dogs—and cats, rabbits, and other creatures—have become so ubiquitous in hospitals, long-term living facilities, and prisons.

These compassionate animals provide love and affection to those who need it most. They bring joy into lonely hearts, comfort the sick, and offer physical contact to people who otherwise receive little or no touch.

If you’ve ever been fortunate enough to live with a dog, you know how they make you feel—like you’re the center of the universe. Who else is going to greet you with such unbridled joy—tail wagging, turning in frantic circles, howling in excitement—when you come home from work?

They’re so much more than our best friends; they’re members of our families and, for many people, the living being with whom they share the strongest connection. The animal-human bond is profoundly powerful—and research is finally proving it.

Here are four ways spending time with animals can make you happier and healthier:
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1. Improved Physical and Mental Health

Pets can lower blood pressure, triglycerides, and cholesterol levels. A recent study found that even the simple act of watching fish swim in an aquarium can lower blood pressure and heart rate and reduce stress. Furthermore, pets provide companionship that can help combat feelings of loneliness.

2. Increased Exercise

Most dogs need to be walked twice a day, which means you’re walking right alongside them. This increased physical activity not only improves your physical health but also combats depression and makes you happier.

3. More Opportunities to Socialize

Animals have an uncanny ability to transcend social barriers. You’ve probably noticed that it’s much easier to strike up a conversation with a person who has an adorable animal in tow than someone who does not.
This social interaction, however brief, can increase feelings of happiness and help you feel more connected to your community.
4.  Release of Oxytocin

Oxytocin is the feel-good hormone responsible for the euphoric love and unbreakable bond between a human mother and baby. Gazing into a dog’s eyes releases oxytocin in both the dogs and the humans.

Of course, not everyone can have pets at home. They are, after all, an enormous responsibility. But there are so many ways to spend time with animals without the long-term commitment of a family pet.

Here are some alternative ways to reap the benefits of spending time with animals:

Volunteering

Think beyond the four walls of the local shelter and explore other rescue organizations in your area that focus on specific species, breeds, and medical conditions. And then get involved.

These rescue organizations need kind and loving people just like you to help:

  • Walk dogs
  • Pet cats
  • Train and socialize animals
  • Provide foster care
  • Help with transportation
Whatever your passion may be, these organizations will put you to work to improve an animal’s life.
Volunteering with a rescue organization is a double dose of happiness, too, because not only does spending time with animals boost your mood, but acting in the service of others is an excellent way to improve both physical and mental health.

Wildlife Watching

Go to a local park, beach, or forest and observe the birds, squirrels, and any other creatures that might be there. Watch them move about their world or close your eyes and listen to the sounds they make.

Slow down and pay attention to how they focus on the simple things, like chewing an acorn or building a nest. This can help you feel more connected with nature, and thus more grounded and at ease.

Pet Sitting

This is a wonderful way to spend some quality time with animals if you can’t have your own pet. Pet owners are always eager to find reliable, animal-loving humans to look after their pets while they’re away. Try:

  • Watching a pair of dogs while their owners leave for the day
  • Feeding a friend’s cats while she’s on vacation
  • In-home pet sitting for longer-term vacations
To conclude, since I have a cat I started appreciating what all those animals are living their own life;  they eat, sleep, love, entertain us and show us respect and show us their unconditional love. In spite of human cruelty, we can do the same to them, respect is crucial for all creatures in this world.

Although I have a cat and a budgerigar as a child I still love all living creatures.
Jasmine is my cat and I love her very much because she is teaching me how to listen, respect everyone in our today’s world, and stay in the present moment.
To me, pets are Love, respect, compassion, and happiness!
ps: The cat’s picture is Jasmine, my cat. Unfortunately, she died 2 years ago.
Have a wonderful & happy day!Gaétane
www.gaetaneferland.com

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