Pets Bring Out the Best in Us

By Sandy Schroeder

When times are tough and challenges just keep coming, who is right there wagging his tail and licking your face? If you have a dog, you know just how true this is. Nobody listens as well or stands up for you as much as your dog. 

I was an only child, but I had two dogs who were my best friends throughout my childhood. They were always there to run and play and listen when I was sad. One lived until my junior year in college.  

Cats Are Great Too

Cats are a whole separate chapter. If you have cats, you know just how wonderful they can be too. Your kingdom is their kingdom and they guard it carefully, staking out the territory. They may not confront strangers, but you can be sure they will be somewhere close by taking in every detail. Late in the day, when you need to relax, they will happily curl up in your lap and teach you what contentment is all about. 

Over the years, my family has had many additional pets including a very small garden snake who had his own aquarium, a large white laboratory rat, and several small turtles. My oldest also wanted an African gray parrot, but we never managed to do that.  

The Value of Pets

The point is pets can be a terrific boost for you and your whole family. During the pandemic there has been a surge of pet adoptions, as many people spent more time at home and discovered how wonderful it could be to have pets. Children learn the responsibilities of taking care of them, and the joy of having special pet friends. 

Martha Stewart said people who love pets are the best breed! She lives on a farm that she happily shares with an assortment of animals, including  house cats, and one little fellow cat who lives in her greenhouse. She said he has his own bed with blankets and toys. She also keeps tiny horses. 

As we move ahead with our lives, pets may still be a great investment in health and wellness for all of us. Give it some thought, research what is possible where you live, and then poll the whole family to figure out what might work. Go slowly so any pet fits right in to become a part of your household. You can be sure they will be pleased too. 

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Shorewood, Ill.