Why Your Pet Is More Than Family—A Therapist Reveals the Surprising Emotional Bond You Didn’t Know You Had
The expert explained that these relationships are symbiotic, benefiting both sides. Pets provide us with unconditional love, support, and attention while we give them shelter, food, love, and devotion. “Petting your dog or cat lowers your blood pressure, evens out your breathing, and causes the release of endorphins, thus making you feel better. And you know what? Your pet reaps those same benefits.”
The animal behaviorist said that while some may say childless people are replacing children with pets, that’s not really true, at least not according to the numbers. Yet, pets are treated as family because often, they do become actual family members to us.
No matter how close to us, other humans may, in some way, judge us. But our pets love us unconditionally, which is the foundation of every human-animal bond. “They ask nothing from you, quietly observing and waiting for you to truly see them for what they are… your only family members you get to choose for yourself!” said Julie, talking about how many of our daily problems can be made not so heavy by simply spending time with our pets.
When it comes to loss, the expert emphasized that we need to remember that grief over a lost family member is by no means silly or frivolous, and it makes no difference if they are human or not. Taking time to grieve is essential, and this process might differ for everyone.
Julie further added that getting a new pet straight away likely won’t fill the void. “Doing so too quickly does a disservice to that new animal who is trying to form a lasting bond with you,” explained the expert, pointing out that animals grieve too, so the loss of one pet at home will be felt by the others.
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