Get a New Leash on Life: 10 Reasons Why Everyone Should Have a Pet

Published on: 21 February 2019 Last Updated on: 29 February 2020

Did you know pet owners spent over $69 billion on their pets in 2017?

It’s no secret that so many people love having a furry companion in their lives. However, not even current pet-owners know all the reasons why an animal companion improves their quality of life. It is a proven fact that dogs know you love them because they can sense it. They reciprocate this love in many ways.

Keep reading to learn science-based reasons why everyone should have a pet.

10 Reasons Why Everyone Should Have a Pet:

There are so many benefits of owning a pet and a ton of reasons why everyone should have a pet. Owning a pet can literally change your life.

1. Less Stress:

There have been studies done on people doing a stressful task. If they have their pets with them, they experience less stress. There are rehabilitation facilities that encourage their patients to get a pet and allow them to be at their facilities.

2. Fewer Allergies:

When kids grow up in a house with pets, they are less likely to develop allergies as they get older. The dander that pets have on their hair is natural immunotherapy for kids. Keep in mind that getting a pet as an adult doesn’t minimize allergies.

3. Less Lonely and Happier:

Pets give people a sense of purpose. They have someone to care for and feed, which gives humans a self-esteem boost. Pets have certain needs that only humans can help them with.

As a pet owner–whether you have a dog, a bird, or a rabbit–you have choices to make to give your pet the best life possible. If it’s a rabbit, you have rabbit food choices you have to make to ensure your furry friend has all the nutrients he/she needs. Same with a dog or a cat.

The choices you make for your pet will make you feel happier naturally because you’ll have a sense of need. Your fur baby will also help you feel less lonely, especially if you are living on your own.

Those who are clinically depressed are less likely to suffer from depressive episodes thanks to having a pet companion.

4. Lowers Blood Pressure:

Some studies have shown that having a pet might lower blood pressure. Marty Becker, DVM, the author of Your Dog: The Owner’s Manual, says that if you have a dog around, your blood pressure is lower.

Petting your pet helps your body release a relaxation hormone and reduces stress hormone levels.

5. Stay More Active:

People are more likely to walk up to 30 minutes in order to make sure their dog gets walked. Having a dog will help you get fit and make some new friends at the park or in your neighborhood. If you stay more active, it will help against rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, and osteoporosis.

Other pets also keep their owners active, but dogs tend to require consistent walking and playing to avoid accidents in the home.

6. Lowers Cholesterol:

People that own pets have lower cholesterol levels than those that don’t have pets. It’s not clear if the lower cholesterol is because of the pet’s presence or the more active lifestyle from owning a pet. All they know is that those that have fur babies have lower cholesterol levels than those without fur babies.

7. Overcome Limitations:

If you have a child at home with ADHD or one on the autism spectrum, they can benefit from having a pet in the house. If your child has ADHD, having a pet to care for helps them focus as they fulfill specific responsibilities to help care for their pets.

The child will develop a bond with their pet that helps their self-esteem and also introduces the feeling of security.

If your child has autism, a pet will help hold their attention. They can also help with sensory activities.

Children with autism have certain sensory issues, and a pet will help alleviate these by getting them used to the way something feels against their skin.

8. Prevent Strokes:

The same Dr. Becker mentioned above says that if you have a cat, you’re 30% less likely to have a heart attack and 40% less likely to have a stroke. He also shares in his book that if someone has a heart attack and owns a dog, they’re more likely to be alive a year later because of their dog alerts.

9. Help Children Develop:

Kids that grow up with pets benefit in their emotional development. Children learn how to express themselves better, and they also learn to relate better when they’re attached to a pet.

10. Change the Life of a Chronically Ill Person:

Dogs have been known to detect cancer, warn about low blood sugar, and predict a seizure. This is because of their strong sense of smell. If you have diabetes, it’s important to know that some dogs are able to alert a dangerous drop in blood glucose before it happens.

Dogs have also been trained to help people who suffer from epilepsy. There are some dogs that lie next to a person that’s having a seizure to help prevent them from getting injured. Others bark if someone is having a seizure or before a seizure occurs.

There are dogs that are trained to be service dogs for people with fibromyalgia. People suffering can place their hurt limbs against the dog’s body and get relief because the dog generates intense body heat.

There are dogs trained to help people that suffer from Parkinson’s disease. They can perform tasks such as open and close doors or turn lights on and off. They train them to touch a person’s foot to let them keep walking when they sense they are freezing.

So Much Good with Having a Fur Baby:

With so many benefits and reasons why everyone should have a pet, how can you resist that cute little fur baby? The benefits that come with owning a pet are much higher than the major responsibility you have for your furry friend.

Are you an animal lover? Check out our pets & animal section for a wealth of information and tips on different animal breeds.

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Different steps on how to clean pet stains on couch

Pet owners know that pets are already a part of the family, as they have made our bad days a bit easier and better. If you’re a mom you think of other things like home areas that need organizing, throwing out the trash, checking this and that. But when you have pets, having your couch stained is inevitable. It is annoying, and it is also frustrating, and it can also ruin your day and it can ruin your furniture. But that is one of the consequences of having a pet since they can’t hold themselves especially the younger ones. You can wipe it or use chemicals in it, but it can damage your furniture if you are not careful. There are steps that you will need to follow in order to save your furniture from damage and so that the smell and the stain will go away properly. Here are home and diy tips on how to clean pet stains on the couch: 1. Use a rag or cloth : The first thing that you will need to do is to soak up as much pet stain as possible, especially if it is urine, and you can do this by using an old rug or any cloth that you are using for cleaning. This can be done no matter where on your couch the pee is located. It is easier, however, when you have a removable cushion because you can just step on it with the most weight and force to remove the seethed urine and to soak it up. 2. Deodorize : Another step on how to clean pet stains on the couch is to deodorize. You can do this by mixing 4 parts of water and 1 part of distilled white vinegar, you can then naturally and easily deodorize your couch cushion and you can give it a good cleaning. Vinegar does smell, but it is known to be the #1 natural household cleaner and it is a great product to use in every laundry, no matter how much load it is. You will be able to smell the strong scent of vinegar as you apply it on the couch and use it to clean it but after washing it up, the smell will be gone, along with the smell of pet stains. This may be a strange solution, but it does the work well. So, with using an old rug or a cloth, you can just wipe the stain and rub the vinegar into the pee spot until you have covered the spot, you can then scrub the vinegar on it. If you see a dry pee spot, then there is no need for you to drain it or soak it out, instead you can go straight to scrubbing the spot with vinegar of you can also spray it with a vinegar and water solution, soak it up and then scrub it. 3. Moisture and odor removal : For this step on how to clean pet stains on the couch, you will need two ingredients: Baking soda and lavender essential oil. These two ingredients have the power of natural ingredients and when they are mixed together they can accomplish the odor and restoration goal that you have for your couch. You just need to measure about 1 cup of baking soda, one that is enough for at least a spot size that is about as big as one cushion and then you can add around 15 to 20 drops of lavender essential oil per 1 cup of water, or you can also adjust the amount depending on how much you need. You can then blend this mixture by using a fork to evenly distribute the lavender essential oil with the baking soda. You can then gently sprinkle the mixture onto the stained area on the couch. 4. Let it sit in : After pouring the mixture in, you just let it sink in and sit for several hours or you can also do it overnight in order for it to dry out, soak up and absorb the odor of the stain. You can come back and vacuum all of the residues and you will see that it will be good as new, and it will also smell great. 5. You can use a liquid dishwashing detergent : If you are not too keen with the vinegar, baking soda, and lavender essential oil solution, then you can try another solution that is guaranteed to work. This involves using liquid dishwashing detergents. You need to take at least 1 cup of warm water and mix it with ¼ teaspoon of whatever dishwashing liquid that you have in your kitchen. Remember that laundry detergent and hand soap will not work for this kind of stain. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and you can spray the affected area. Once the mixture has soaked into the stain after a few minutes then you can use a cloth to wipe it up. Use warm water to rinse the area. Read Also : 6 Tips For Keeping Your Home Clean (With Pets And Kids) What Are The Best Hamster Toys For Your Pet?

Can Dogs Safely Take Aspirin? Discover A Safer Alternative With CBD

When your furry companions experience pain or inflammation, you naturally want to provide them with relief. Aspirin is a common over-the-counter pain reliever humans use, leading pet owners to wonder if it is safe for their dogs. Read on to discover "Can dogs take aspirin?" and how CBD can relieve pain for your beloved canine companion. The Potential Risks of Aspirin for Dogs Aspirin belongs to a class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While it can be safe and effective for humans, dogs have different physiology that can make them more susceptible to the adverse effects of aspirin. Here are some risks associated with administering aspirin to dogs: 1. Gastrointestinal Upset Dogs are more prone to developing stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding from NSAIDs, including aspirin. The delicate balance of their digestive system can be disrupted, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and even more severe complications. 2. Kidney and Liver Damage Aspirin can place significant strain on a dog’s kidneys and liver. Over time, prolonged use or excessive dosages may lead to kidney or liver dysfunction, potentially causing long-term health issues. Reduced blood flow- often caused by aspiring might damage not only the liver of your favorite pet but also its kidney. 3. Blood Clotting One of the potential benefits of aspirin for humans is its blood-thinning properties. However, this can be dangerous for dogs, as it may increase the risk of internal bleeding, especially if they have underlying conditions or are taking other medications. 4. Reverse Healing While aspirin can help your animal overcome pain, it might harm other bodily operations. The reason is prostaglandins have certain positive impacts on their body. Hence, when prostaglandins are exhibited from aspirin, there might be some reverse healing consequences. 5. Might Lead To Bleeding Since aspirin works like a blood thinner, it might help in stopping blood clots when the dog is bleeding. Dogs having the disease of Von Willebrand should never consume aspirin. This disease lasts lifelong, and the blood never clots. The Safer Alternative: CBD for Dogs CBD is a non-psychoactive compound obtained from hemp. It has gained popularity recently for its potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties. Here's why CBD is a safer alternative to aspirin for dogs: Natural Pain Relief CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in dogs, which helps regulate pain perception. It can provide relief for various types of pain, such as joint discomfort, arthritis, and post-surgical pain, without the potential risks associated with aspirin. Anti-Inflammatory Effects Inflammation is a common source of pain for dogs, and CBD has shown promising anti-inflammatory properties. CBD can help alleviate discomfort and improve mobility in dogs suffering from osteoarthritis or autoimmune disorders by reducing inflammation. A classic example of anti-inflammatory effects includes aspirin, which helps in the reduction of ulcers. Reduces Convulsions & Seizures CBD has recently become a new alternative when it comes to treating seizures and convulsions in dogs. Without many possibilities of a side-effect, most dog owners prefer CBD oil instead of aspirin. CBD for dogs might be available in various convenient forms, including extracts from a dropper bottle or in addition to the food. Minimal Side Effects Unlike aspirin, CBD is generally well-tolerated by dogs. It has a favorable safety profile, with minimal side effects reported, such as drowsiness or dry mouth. However, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage for your dog's specific needs. Gastrointestinal Support The infamous CBD oil is popular for relaxing and calming the intestinal lining of your dog. Ultimately, it reduces unnecessary pain that is caused when muscles are tensed in and around the stomach. The ingredients in CBD oil promote a healthy digestive system in your pet’s body. Depending on the health needs of your pet, you might upgrade to higher-potency CBD. Choosing the Right CBD Product for Your Dog Choosing a high-quality product specifically formulated for dogs is crucial when considering CBD as an alternative to aspirin. Here are some key factors to consider: Organic and Lab-Tested Opt for CBD products made from organic hemp and undergo third-party lab testing. This ensures the absence of harmful chemicals, pesticides, and contaminants, guaranteeing the purity and safety of the product for your furry friend. Your pets, especially dogs, need careful attention. Hence, you must always opt for an organic CBD oil. Transparency There are so many ways in which a company can offer you lofty promises of being top quality. But in order to buy the best CBD for your dog, you must always look for a brand that is transparent with its consumers. The CBD oil must be tested through a neutral third-party lab in order to reach the doors of your house. Full Spectrum vs. Isolate Full-spectrum CBD products contain a wide range of beneficial compounds in hemp, including trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). While THC is typically present in very low concentrations, choose CBD isolate products if you prefer a THC-free option. Proper Dosage Determining your dog's CBD dosage can be challenging. Factors such as their weight, age, and the severity of their condition play a role. Consulting with a veterinarian experienced in CBD use for pets is essential to ensure you administer the correct dosage. Check The Quality Your pet is no different than your other family members. You might want to provide them with the best care. Look for qualities like the following in CBD oil: Rich in antioxidants USDA Certified Organic Solvent, pesticide, herbicide and mycotoxin-free Human grade Without additives Conclusion While many pet owners may wonder, "Can dogs take aspirin?" it's important to recognize the potential risks and adverse effects of giving this medication to your canine companions. Instead, CBD offers a safer alternative for managing pain and inflammation in dogs. With its natural properties and minimal side effects, CBD can be a valuable tool in improving your dog's well-being without the potential dangers of aspirin. Before introducing CBD into your dog's healthcare routine, remember to consult with your veterinarian and choose a reputable CBD product specifically formulated for dogs. Read Also: Ways To Calm Your Anxious Dog Top 11 Dewormer For Dogs To Know In 2023 When Every (Dog) Year Counts: The Pros and Cons of Adopting a Puppy vs. An Older Dog

Top 11 Dewormer For Dogs To Know In 2023

Dogs can get worms, and their owners need to be aware of the steps that need to be taken to help the dogs. Worms in dogs impact them and have the probability of infecting humans; hence, want to know about the best dewormers for dogs? Keep reading the article. Dogs can get worms from their mothers in the womb, mosquito bites, and digging in the dirt. Deworming is an essential part of the care that dog owners and authorities must perform so that the dogs can live healthy lives. Top 11 Dewormer For Dogs To Know In 2023! Certain worms infect humans; hence, it is essential to deworm a dog regularly for the safety of the children and the adults at home. Want to know more about dewormers for dogs? Keep reading. Puppies and small dogs are more in need of intervention for deworming, such as once a month, while dogs above 6 months can manage up to once in two to 4 months. The article will be listing down the best dewormer for dogs. So, you have the question, what is a dewormer for dogs? What Is Deworming? Deworming is a term used to remove heart worms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms, and roundworms, all parasites using anthelmintic drugs. The medication used to deworm the dogs successfully makes the dog healthy. The medications used are mostly given to dogs so that when they ingest them, the worms have muscle spasms leading to paralysis. Once the worm is paralyzed, the gastrointestinal tract successfully gets rid of the worms. At times, the worms might still be alive and moving when they come out of the dog's body, while in some cases, they die. Some medications prevent the worms from growing by disrupting cell division leading to the worms starving and dying. Need And Significance Of Deworming The worms are parasites that pose a severe threat to the life of dogs; hence, it is compulsory that deworming must be done to the dogs. It is regular veterinary care for dogs to deworm them because of several benefits, such as improved health and appetite. 1. Interceptor Plus The medication suits dogs suffering from hookworm, tapeworm, roundworm, and other intestinal parasitic infections. It must be given once a month and is made of chicken-flavored tablets. It is suitable for dogs aged 6 months to 2 pounds. 2. Durvet Tripler Wormer The medication is effective for large breeds of dogs which is quite effective because if the drug is standard, for larger dogs, you need more tablets; hence, if you get Durvet Tripler Wormer, it will be efficient with just one pill. The medication is designed to quickly impact the dog and help them to get rid of the worms. You must use the product within three weeks if you want the maximum impact. The complete dosage includes palatable chewable that is mixed with the food to have an impact on 25 to 200 pounds of dogs. 3. Trifexis Trifexis is used to treat common species of worms and is an option to kill adult fleas. It is pretty efficient and comes in small beef-flavored tablets. Also, it prevents dogs from having heartworm disease and prevents flea infestations. It is more expensive than other dewormers in the market. 4. Safe-Guard 4 Canine Dewormer Safe-Guard 4 Canine Dewormer medication, also called fenbendazole, covers many worms to be treated in relevance to intestinal parasites. The safe guard dewormer for dogs is an efficient and fast solution, especially concerning killing all four species of worms, and comes in an easy-to-administer form. In terms of affordability, the product is good and is considered one of the best dog dewormers in 2023. 5. Drontal Plus The medication is very effective as it treats 9 intestinal worms and is available in chewable and tablet forms. It is advisable for 4-week-old puppies and dogs. The medicine is FDA Approved. The ingredients of the product combine pyrantel pamoate, febantel, and praziquantel. The medication is not available without a prescription. 6. Nemex-2 Liquid Dewormer The medication is most effective for puppies and dogs who are young with an age of 2 weeks. The medicine is in liquid form and can be effectively disguised in dog food, making it easy for the dogs to ingest it. It has been approved for treating roundworms. The medication is safe for dogs and perfect for those who do not like tablets. The issue is that the remedy might need to be more effective for a higher dog infestation rate. 7. Heartgard Plus The beef-flavored and chewable tablet can be easily administered to puppies aged six weeks. It is most effective for heartworm, hookworms, and roundworms. The medication cannot be accessed without a prescription, and for certain dog breeds, it is not applicable. 8. Bayer Quad Dewormer Chewable Tablets The medication is powerful enough for dogs weighing 2 to 25 pounds, with three active ingredients: febantel, pyrantel pamoate, and praziquantel. A single dose of the medication is enough to treat one dog of worms. The tablet is highly palatable and is beef-flavored chewable. It has been reported that some dogs might not like the taste of the pills and require multiple doses if the infestation is high. 9. Sentry HC WormX Plus 7-Way Dewormer The Sentry HC WormX Plus 7-Way Dewormer is the most efficient for small dogs and is designed to kill worms of 7 types. The two ingredients in the medicine are praziquantel and pyrantel pamoate. You can follow up with a fecal test so that there is no crisis of the worms inside your dogs. The dewormer for puppies is not ideal for dogs who weigh above 25 pounds. 10. Medfly Defender Plus The Medfly Defender Plus is the dewormer that Medfly Healthcare has manufactured. It is a powerful solution to remove worms from dogs, and the tablets are palatable. The tapeworm dewormer for dogs has Febantel, Pyrantel Pamoate, and Praziquantel. Each pack has 10 tablets, and this product is one of the most affordable products available in the market. This product can be used for dogs of all ages and helps remove hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and roundworms. 11. Furry Tails Kiwof Plus The deworming solution Furry Tails Kiwof Plus is effective when it comes to eliminating worms such as tapeworms, whipworms, roundworms, and hookworms. This tablet is effective for dogs who weigh up to 30 kg. The tablet is easy to administer and quite palatable. The pills consist of Febantel, Pyrantel Pamoate, and Praziquantel. The dosage is 1 tablet for 10 kgs of body weight of dogs. Accordingly, you can administer it based on the requirements. Conclusion Please read the article to learn about the best dewormers for dogs. Comment below if you have a tried and tested dewormer not included in this list. More Resources: Ways To Calm Your Anxious Dog A Quick Look At Dog Bite Statistics And Increasing Safety Where Are You Able To Search For A Pet-Friendly Apartment In Boston?

Get a New Leash on Life: 10 Reasons Why Everyone Should Have a Pet