My sisters were in grief just two days back because their pet (Doberman) named Courage died of old age. They were inconsolable, and terribly down. Every time when you lose your pet, a question arises – should I have another pet? This question arises because the feeling of despair warns you “not again.” But, I have seen this time and again, people who are once pet lovers will remain forever pet lovers.
How having pet helps?
Having a pet helps you stay invested in life; particularly if you live alone. Pets keep you busy handling their routine as well along with yours, thus they counter loneliness and help you staying in touch with surrounding. They keep you focused. They keep you bound to life’s worth. If you’re going to see the compatibility mat
ch for a “good” or “best” pet, let me tell you it’s no different than finding a perfect life partner. There is no one pet perfect for you. They are as crazy, as lazy, as moody or as nagging as you are. Yes, they have their moods and egos both. They have their highs and lows as well. They might growl, bite to express their uneasiness some times. Tolerate them, because they are worth it. I think although there is no perfect pet, millions of pet lovers will vouch saying that a dog is the best choice for many of them. You see, dogs and people develop deep emotional ties, and dogs are great companions; they are honest, protective and most caring creatures
. They will literally lay down their lives to protect you. And what do they ask for is little in return – a pat on back, scratch behind their ears, little cuddling, and little chatter that’s all.
Do you know this – dogs mold their schedule and personality to match yours? They are never engaged or off duty. Smaller dogs, in
particular, are easier to handle. They can travel with you everywhere. The routine of caring for a pet can bring structure and purpose to daily life. Maybe you don’t always want to get out of bed, but your pet wants you to. Isn’t that a good thing?
Whether you like or not, your dog will want you to exercise – he/she wants you to take them out regularly for walks, give them food at regular intervals, play with them, keep them neat and tidy, regular bathing, cutting their nails, taking them to veterinary checkups – there is so much of work. So the dog’s upbringing becomes part of your daily plan. Many researchers have indicated that older people with pets show less stress than those without. This maybe because those regular walks or regular activities in life help you get over distress. When you come back home, who is the happiest of all, it’s your pet. His/her innocent tail wagging and jumping cannot be compared to tons of money in life; they make you feel so important, so much wanted! They really welcome you with all fondness.
Your dog keeps you connected with others in society; many won’t like him, while many will be his fans. He/she many times outshines your subsistence. It is such a psychological relief to be taking care of another living creature.
When you bring a pet home, remember you promise to continue being involved in his life, and this commitment is one of the most positive decisions you can make as you get older. Whether you believe it or not, pets are a great way to improve your mood and temperament. Research has shown that people who suffer from various diseases have lesser chances of depression if they keep pets as compared to those who are suffering from similar diseases and don’t keep pets.
Medical practitioners say that dog owners have lesser problems related to blood pressure and heart dieses. It also helps reduce
cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Pour your heart out to them; tell them your problems and secrets, you bet, they will never reveal your secrets to others. To me, they are the best stress busters. Several studies have discovered that people who tend to spend their time with pets are more likely to live longer than people who don’t. You’re benefited because they improve your social skills. Kids who grow up with pets at home are always respectful towards living things.
How to cope with the grief after your pets death?
Their life spans are shorter. Join a pet-lover’s group or form one. They are the best people to come to console you, and you can also do the same to a pet lover in his moments of grief. When you’re pet dies, acknowledge your grief and give yourself permission and time to express it. Don’t hesitate to reach out to others who can lend a sympathetic ear or shoulder. Jot down your feelings in your diary, write poem, a paragraph, a short story – you’ll feel much better. I mean it.
Don’t rush into the decision of getting another pet. It is not all that easy when you are emotionally warned
out. And, maybe you won’t be fair to your new pet. Each animal has his/her own unique personality and a new animal cannot replace the one you’ve lost. Your life will guide you the right time to adopt a new pet; give yourself some time. Most importantly, think cautiously whether you have the energy and time to take on new responsibilities? Do you have a support system to lean on when you want to travel? Listen to your heart you’ll get the answer.
