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Pet guide: dogs, cats, rabbits and other types of pets

The benefits of owning a pet

Pets are great companions for people whether it's a dog, cat, bird, hamster or fish. Pets not only make people happy, but they also encourage us to keep active. In this article you can find out more about the advantages of having a pet and we will also explain how having a pet can support and have a positive impact on your child’s development.

If you are thinking about getting a pet, you will find various articles below on choosing a pet and also on how to look after different types of animals. Download our free helpful checklist that contains tips and the most important information on getting a pet:

Checklist: how to prepare for getting a pet

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The benefits of having a pet

People and their pets are often inseparable and pets will also help you to feel less lonely, even though their interaction is completely nonverbal. Especially if you have a stressful everyday life, a pet can help you to relax and reduce stress. Looking after a pet will not only make you happy, but having pet will also encourage you to exercise more regularly. Below you will find some other health benefits of having a pet:

  • Exercise and keeping active: pet owners need to spend time caring for their pets every day. Taking your dog for a walk, cleaning an enclosure or even playing with your cat will help you to keep active in everyday life. Dog owners in particular benefit from regular walks, which in turn will strengthen your immune system and cardiovascular system.

  • Help you to socialise: having a pet will help you to feel less lonely. Pet owners also find it easier to socialise with other people in the park, in pet shops, whilst on walks or even in online forums. Our shared passion for animals means that we can quickly find common ground and topics of conversation.

  • Loyal companion: pets are a loyal companion for their owners who support them through both the good and bad times. Pets offer unconditional love and support. A pet is a loyal companion, especially for children, singles or older people who feel lonely or find it difficult to socialise.

  • Improved mental health and well-being: pets provide love and support in difficult times and they will also help you to have a more structured everyday life. Pet owners are therefore often less anxious and less prone to depression. Having a pet will also boost your self-confidence as you will feel needed by your pet on a daily basis. When you stroke or play with your pet, oxytocin is also released. This hormone reduces stress, lowers blood pressure and your heart rate and therefore has a calming effect on people. Reducing your stress level will have a positive effect on your mental health and well-being.

Tip

Pets can help older people to keep active and to improve their well-being. Older people who have pets often have more social contacts and a fulfilling everyday life. Pets will also help you to have a more structured everyday life, which will make it easier to adapt to changes and different situations, especially when retiring.

The positive impact pets can have on a child‘s development

Children can also benefit from having a pet. Animals not only have a positive impact on your physical health through increased exercise and stress relief, but also on a child's development. If you are considering welcoming a pet into your home, below you will find some reasons why this is a good idea:

  • A pet helps to reduce stress. Petting and playing with a pet distracts your child and it will make them feel calmer.

  • Pets offer emotional support: in difficult situations, your child will find love and support from a pet. Animals are patient and offer affection and support, which can give children a sense of security.

  • Having a pet encourages children to exercise and spend time outside in the fresh air, for example by going for a walk or playing in the garden. This will help them to keep active and strengthen their immune system.

  • Children learn to take responsibility for looking after their pets. As they get older, they can gradually take on more tasks and responsibility. This teaches them a sense of duty and self-discipline.

  • If your child is allowed to look after a pet, this will also boost their self-confidence and self-esteem. They take on this big responsibility and know what their pet needs from them.

  • Pets also teach children to understand and be considerate of others. When young children learn to pay attention and respect the needs of their pets, they will develop their social skills including empathy.

  • Shy children in particular can benefit from having a pet. Interacting with dogs or other pets can help shy children to come out of their shell and appear more self-confident.

Tip

There are a couple of things to keep in mind when it comes to hygiene. You will need to make sure that you thoroughly and regularly wash your hands. Cat litter trays, food and water bowls should be cleaned daily, hutches and cages will also need to be thoroughly cleaned and sleeping areas should also be cleaned regularly. Regular vaccinations and check-ups at the vet’s will help to keep your pet safe and well.

Choosing a pet that is right for you

Pets are always a lovely addition to the family. However, before you give an animal a home, you should carefully consider what type of pet is best suited to you, your family and your lifestyle. In this article we will explain what you should consider before buying a pet.

Getting a pet

The best pets for children

Lots of children want to have a pet and many parents think about whether their child is old enough to take on the responsibility of looking after an animal. However, not every type of animal is equally suitable for every age group. In this article we will explain when and how children can slowly take on the responsibility and the tasks of looking after a pet.

The best pets for children

Taking your pet on holiday with you: planning & tips on pet care

Who will look after your pet whilst you are away on holiday? Many pet owners ask themselves this important question. Before getting a pet you should already think about suitable pet care for when you are away on holiday. We'll show you which pets you can take on holiday with you and what you should bear in mind when organising everything. You will also find information in this article on how to organise the best care for your pet whilst you are away.

Going on holiday with your pet

Looking after a pet cat

Cats are quite independent, but at the same time they also enjoy spending time with their owners. Before getting a cat there are a couple of things you should keep in mind. Do you have enough space for a cat? Do you have an outside space or will your cat be indoors? In this article we will show what to keep in mind before getting a pet cat and also how to look after it. This article will help you to decide whether a pet cat is right for you.

How to look after a cat

Owning small pets: how to care for a hamster, rabbit or guinea pig

Small pets are generally known for their calm nature and they are often considered the ideal pet for keeping indoors. However, these small types of pets also need lots of time and care. In this article you can find out more about what you need to know about getting a small pet and looking after it.

Looking after a small pet
Tip

Taking your pet for regular check-ups to the vet’s will help to ensure that they stay fit and well. Therefore, if possible, start putting money to one side for going to the vet’s and also for any unexpected expenses as soon as you buy a pet. It may also be a good idea to take out pet health insurance.

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References and further information

https://autumntrailsvet.com/7-easy-ways-to-keep-your-pet-happy-and-healthy/
(Last accessed on 28.02.2024)

https://autumntrailsvet.com/pet-hygiene-rules/
(Last accessed on 28.02.2024)

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20220609-do-pets-help-childrens-development
(Last accessed on 28.02.2024)

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/mood-boosting-power-of-dogs.htm
(Last accessed on 28.02.2024)

https://www.onehealth.org/blog/10-mental-physical-health-benefits-of-having-pets
(Last accessed on 28.02.2024)

The image sources in this text are in chronological order

Cover photo: iStock.com/chendongshan
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2. Image in text: iStock.com/MarkoNOVKOV
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