Do you remember your first pet? Whether it was a goldfish or a golden retriever, there's a strong possibility that you were given it by your parents in order to teach you how to take care of another living creature; to learn responsibility and the value of companionship.
Photo courtesy of Sky
Those humble beginnings, building character and exploring what it means to be mature, were just the start of discovering how pets can make us better people.
Pets Inspire Kindness
Every day you feed your pet, take the dog for a walk or let the cat run wild in the garden. And every night, you budge up so you're uncomfortable, just so Frisky can take up space on the bed. Now that's kindness! In fact, that's the sort of kindness you'd usually reserve for family members - which is exactly what your pets are really.
Pets Keep Us Mentally Alert
Anyone with children will testify to the fact that there's never a dull moment with them around. Pets are almost identical in this respect - bouncing around, ducking and diving into places they shouldn't, and gnawing at the wires to the TV. Keeping an eye on your furry familiar can be a serious motivator. And it's definitely as mentally challenging as the Times crossword!
Pets Keep Us Strong and Balanced
When times are tough, there are few things more uplifting than knowing your loyal pet is at your side. No matter how bad it gets, that fuzzy ol' friend will stick by you, and give you a reason to push on, to fight through the pain, and make it out a better, and more importantly stronger, person by the end.
Pets Help Us Bond, Love and Trust
You love your pet, right? You play games, watch TV, nuzzle up and that's great. But having a pet in the home doesn't just bring the two of you closer together; they can also help you bond with other members of the family. When Rover starts chasing his tail, or li'l Mittens pulls that guilty but 'can't-stay-mad-at-you' face for eating your dessert, you and your loved ones share that awesome experience. It gives you all something to laugh about, and brings you all closer together.
Pets aren't just a separate extension of your life; they're a major part of it, as important as your loved ones. So take the time out to appreciate just how great they are not just as pets, but as part of the family. In fact, by doing so, it's just another way that pets make us better people.