Reap the rewards of companionship
Pets become your companions when you invest in their wellbeing
Does the sight of baby animals make you go all mushy and warm-hearted? Do you thrill at the thought of having a pet parrot who can call out your name? Does it destroy you to see an animal in distress?
You may believe that you are an animal lover, but does this mean that you are qualified to be a pet owner?
Juan Korkie, Dubai-based clinical psychologist with The Lighthouse Arabia, said being an animal lover isn’t enough. A pet owner must provide lasting companionship to the animal.
He explained that pets become companions when their owners take care of them, which includes cleaning up their mess, feeding them, and spending time with them.
“A pet becomes a companion when they are part of your daily life and rhythm. If you are likely to get someone else to do these tasks, it is likely that what you want is not a companion, but rather a toy or an accessory,” said Korkie.
Potential pet owners must also understand that pets require commitment that must last its lifetime and not just for a few months, and anything less would be doing a disservice to the animal.
Once these issues are fully understood and accepted, a pet owner is able to enjoy all the physical, emotional, and social benefits of having a pet.
“Having a pet can in itself stimulate the desire to care and nurture, even when previously these qualities may have seemed absent in a person. It can in itself be therapeutic,” said Korkie. There is adequate research on the benefits of having pets and interacting with animals on mental health, in all age groups, he said.
“On a physical level, having a pet has been shown to reduce blood pressure, heart rate and the risk of heart disease. Petting, stroking and taking care of pets can also have a calming effect and reduce anxiety and stress,” said Korkie.
Research has also indicated that pet owners tend to have fewer doctor visits, and generally seem to have greater selfreported physical well-being.
“Pets, and dogs in particular, are great for activating their owners into getting more exercise which itself includes numerous health benefits,” added Korkie. On an emotional level, the relationship with a pet can mirror the benefits of a human relationship.
“Having a pet reduces feelings of loneliness, and gives people a sense of purpose and meaning. This is particularly important for people who may be depressed and suicidal,” said Korkie.
At the same time, pets provide an enormous amount of unconditional acceptance and affection, which can be a great protective factor for people who are lonely, he added.
On a social level, pets also make it easier for people to be sociaable, and are seen as improving self-confidence. “Anyone who has ever taken their dog for a walk will know that people are more likely to be social, whether they have an animal themselves or not,” Korkie said.
Do your research before bringing home a pet. If possible, have a trial run and holiday sit a pet for a friend or colleague.” Dr Sara Elliot | Veterinarian
Having a pet reduces feelings of loneliness, and gives people a sense of purpose, particularly for people who may be depressed and suicidal.” Juan Korkie | Clinical psychologist