Our theme this month is “‘Tis a Gift.” We’re taking a look at things we’re thankful for and ways to keep things simple in life, both in your apartment and in general!
This week, we’re giving thanks for the gift of “furever” friends! Did you know that this weekend is National Animal Adoption Weekend? It’s actually called National Pet Adoption Weekend, but we all know that the animals we bring into our homes are more than just “pets”: they’re family, part of our support systems, and sometimes our very best friends. All across the country people are showing love for their furry companions, so we thought we’d take a look at what makes having an animal in your home so great!
1. Have a Heart
Did you know that having an animal is good for your heart? Having an animal has been shown to reduce the chances of a heart attack, lower blood pressure, and other heart-healthy advantages! It must be the way they warm our hearts just by being around!
2. You’ve Got a Friend in Me
The animals we bring into our homes are like family … and studies show they’re almost as close to us, with about 91% of animal caretakers saying they feel very close to their animals. And not only are we close to them … they also help us to get closer to others! Whether it’s hanging out at a dog park or chatting up fellow cat lovers, there’s something about animals that, let’s face it, makes it hard not to talk about them! Don’t believe us? Check out the hashtag #catsofinstagram and see how many people across the country are loving each other’s cat pics alone!
3. Bark = Meow = Love
As the saying goes, “To err is human, to forgive, canine.” Okay, maybe not, but nobody shows unconditional love like a dog. Nobody makes you feel more special with just a little bit of attention than a cat. Even a goldfish can make you feel loved. Studies have shown that animal owners have higher self-esteem and lower bouts of loneliness. Why? Because as much as we love our animals, they give ten times the love back.
4. Get Res-paw-nsible
Remember when you were younger and your parents told you having an animal was a big responsibility? Whether that was their reason for getting or denying you an animal, it’s still true today. Having an animal is a BIG responsibility, whether it’s a Betta in a bowl or a Lab on a leash! But they are literally the best “chores” in the house! Instead of thinking of taking care of an animal as a “chore,” think of it as a chance to learn how to care for others more than yourself. Think especially hard about this when it comes to emptying out the litter box.
5. Get Fit!
Animals help us stay more active! Whether you’re taking your dog or cat for a walk (cats on leashes? We love it!) or just playing in the house, animals get us up and active more than we would be without them. And we’ve all seen the YouTube videos of dogs jogging along with their owners on treadmills, or cats joining in a yoga routine. Who knows … you and your furry friend may go viral one of these days just by working out together!
So celebrate the furry friends in your life! Shower them with special treats this weekend. Celebrate the Adoption Weekend with a donation to your favorite animal shelter or local humane association. And if you don’t have an animal, but are thinking about adding one to your household, just keep these five things in mind:
1. Think about the cost. Make sure you have enough in your budget for monthly food and care needs, including regular visits to the vet, possible grooming, toys, etc.
2. Think about your time. Do you have time for an animal? We’re talking time to walk and feed her, take him to the doctor, play time, and so forth. How will an animal impact your work, family time, etc.?
3. Think about your space. What kind of animal would work best in your home? A smaller space might mean a cat or fish. A larger space might accommodate a dog or cat. And keep in mind … things change. You might wind up upgrading or downgrading your space, adding a roommate, etc.
4. Think about your lease. What does your lease say about adding an animal to your home? When in doubt, just stop by the Welcome Center … we’re happy to answer any questions you might have about bringing your furry friend home!
5. Think about the law. As much as we love all animals, some simply aren’t allowed. Whether it’s your lease or state law that restricts what kind of animal you can have, don’t commit to an animal before you’re sure it’s legal for you to have it in the first place!