The majority of us grow up with imaginary friends. We created a person or an animal in our minds to talk to when we are home alone, feel sad, need a friend, or simply want to feel accompanied. When we grow up, we all leave the imaginary friend behind but find the need to have the emotional support this creation gave us. Although we can find this in our friendship and our families, most of us find the same kind of comfort in pets. We have come to realize that having a pet increases your chances of happiness.
The statistics
A few years back, Independent conducted research in which they polled a large number of individuals and compared their answers to whether or not they had pets. The results showed owning a pet increases your chances of being happy and successful. Those who had pets were also more likely to be married, have children, earn a university degree, and find the perfect job.
Out of the 2,000 people who participated in the research, “those with canine and feline companionships were twice as likely to consider themselves a success.” But success was not the only benefit the poll showed when it came to having pets. The results gave an insight into much happier and healthier lives.
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Nine in ten owners think their pet is good for their health and wellbeing.
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Six in ten owners believe they laugh more because they have a pet.
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Seven in ten owners reported being more relaxed thanks to their pet.
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50% of the polled individuals said they feel less lonely because they have a pet.
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31% of the people who participated in the research claimed having a pet gives them a purpose in life.
The reality
For as long as I can remember, I have had pets, from family dogs to family cats. They were always a source of joy and happiness in my life. Getting home from school and seeing your dog jump in excitement because you are finally back. Laying on the couch to watch TV after doing your homework and having your cat next to you purring in comfort. Small things that made the feeling of home even more real.
Nowadays, as a grownup, I cannot picture my life without my two cats. I say goodbye before leaving in the mornings, letting them know I will be back after work. I talk aloud to them when something is bothering me, and somehow they always seem to understand. Walking into my apartment after two jobs, having been gone for over 12 hours, definitely feels much better when I open the door and both of them are waiting on the couch for me. They bring happiness into my life in a way no human could.
Increasing happiness
We all need emotional support that will make us feel happy even when we feel like giving up. Having a pet is that constant reminder that you are not alone no matter what you do or think. Their fury selves are always around to bark or purr some joy into your life. They do not judge you. They love and admire you because they see you as one of their own. Statistics and experiences show having a pet increases your chances of happiness.
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