As winter loosens its icy grip and we step into the light of Spring, it’s like we’re emerging from hibernation. I don’t know about you, but winter’s early sunsets, dark mornings, and bitter cold make me want to curl up and do nothing. This routine can leave us feeling down and not quite ourselves. You might call it the “Winter Blues,” but it’s officially known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), related to less sunlight (https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder ). Thankfully, Spring is just around the corner, and soon we’ll be basking in the sunshine again!
One thing that many people find helps with anxiety and depression is their pets. Pets provide a sense of security, comfort, and distraction. A UK study of young adults found that pets are mood enhancers, providing comic relief and joy, and giving owners a sense of peace. Participants also mentioned feeling a sense of purpose when caring for their pets. Even more profound, the study found that those with severe mental health issues and suicidal thoughts reported feeling a deep connection and responsibility toward their animals (https://mentalhealthdaily.com/2024/03/05/pets-anxiety-depression-young-adults-effects-dog-cat-ownership-2024-study/).
Anyone who’s been comforted by a puppy or kitty can attest to the power of fur and kisses. Here are some ways pets can help us:
Emotional Regulation
Increased Physical Activity
Social Support
Providing a Sense of Purpose and Responsibility
When I was in college, I worked at a veterinary clinic for three years, and I can tell you firsthand how frustrating it is to see people pick the wrong animal for their lifestyle. So, with all the benefits I’ve mentioned, please do your research before getting a pet. Make sure the pet you choose fits your living situation and how much you’re home. I’ve seen many surgeries where things were pulled out of puppies’ intestines because they ate things they shouldn’t have while left unattended. Maybe a fish or a turtle is a better fit for your current lifestyle.
My grandmother, in her 80s, lost my grandfather and her two pugs within a year. We were concerned that without something to care for, she was getting sad. So, we got her a small water turtle named Sadie. My uncle cleans the tank every weekend, and my grandma holds Sadie in a baking dish on the couch, talks to her, and scrubs her shell with a toothbrush. It’s the cutest thing ever. Every time Grandma walks by the tank and talks to Sadie, the turtle stretches her neck up like she’s saying hello. If anyone else comes by, she swims away and hides in her shell. Grandma had only ever had dogs, but having Sadie in the house has helped lift her spirits and gives her a purpose to get up in the mornings.
Speaking of pets and the joy they bring, if you’re in Quincy and own a dog, Rover’s Run Dog Park is a great place for some off-leash fun and socialization. Run by The Quincy Humane Society, it’s open daily from dawn to dusk. For just $10 per year, you get unlimited park access, provided your pup has a current rabies tag, and you register at the Quincy Humane Society. Note that no puppies under six months are allowed for safety and health reasons https://www.quincyhumanesociety.org/programs-services/.
So, let’s do it! Let’s get out in the sun, enjoy our pets, our kids, and each other, and maybe even donate to the Humane Society while we’re at it! Happy Spring!
Take Care, Nikki!
