Pets provide numerous benefits for their human companions. Learn how we can brighten their lives in return.
Above: The Retseck family unwinds with their dogs, Teddy and Flash, at their home in Fuquay-Varina. From left: Teddy, Meghan, Reaghan, Ryan, Flash, Michael and Liam. Photo by Jenn McKinney Photography
story by JANICE LEWINE
Whether they’re furry, fluffy, feathery or scaly, pets have a way of bringing us happiness. The 2024 Pet Ownership and Demographic Sourcebook by the American Veterinary Medical Association estimates that approximately 60 million households in the U.S. own either a dog or cat, and 10 million keep birds, fish, reptiles and small mammals as pets. That’s a lot of wagging tails, soft purrs, cheerful chirps and lizard licks!
Countless studies have proven that the bond between humans and pets is a global phenomenon, genuine and deeply satisfying. We enjoy having pets for companionship and for the unconditional love they provide. This strong connection harkens back to ancient history when our ancestors depended on animals for hunting, farming and herding. And while we’re considered the masters of our pets, we conversely find ourselves as willing servants in fulfilling their wants and needs. This sense of purpose gives our lives meaning and motivation.
Owning a pet improves our overall health too, says Mary Affee, Ed.D, president and founder of Horizon Integrated Wellness Group in Raleigh. “We know that animals assist in boosting oxytocin, the bonding hormone, and reducing cortisol, the stress hormone. They enhance our emotional regulation and tend to reduce loneliness and depression, especially in older adults and even teenagers. And they keep us moving, which is good for our physical health.”
Choosing the Right Pet
Different kinds of animals require diverse degrees of care. Dr. Max Gordon, DVM, who treats a variety of animal species—including dogs, cats, pocket pets (such as hamsters, rabbits and hedgehogs), reptiles, avians and exotics—at Meadowmont Animal Hospital in Chapel Hill, says the first step in ownership is determining your lifestyle and your overall ability to provide for their well-being.
Dogs are generally considered higher maintenance than cats due to training and socialization needs, exercise requirements and grooming. Cats, on the other hand, are often more independent and adaptable to indoor environments, and a better fit for busy individuals.
Considering where you are in life is a major factor. Gordon says, “If you have a toddler and a new baby, it’s probably not the best time to get a dog because you’re just going to make your work/life balance much more challenging.”
And while pets can be particularly helpful for seniors who may be experiencing a loss of purpose due to retirement or other life changes, aspects such as health, mobility, living situations and temperament are key. “Even some of the little breed dogs can have a lot of energy, so it’s important that a senior’s level of ability is going to match the breed.”
Gordon adds that some animals surprisingly make better pets than others. “A lot of people assume some pocket pets won’t involve so much time consumption, but they can be just as time- consuming as a dog or a cat in terms of needing to feed them and their handling.”
The same is true for certain reptiles, like chameleons, which Gordon says “make fantastic pets but are one of the more difficult reptiles to keep” because of their high maintenance needs, delicate health and solitary nature. Chameleons are more suited for observation and are typically not comfortable being handled. He suggests starting with a bearded dragon or a leopard gecko because they are easy to take care of and enjoy human companionship.
Children can learn empathy and compassion toward people when caring for a pet. They also develop responsibility and learn to manage their time and establish routines by engaging in age-appropriate tasks that benefit the animal’s comfort and happiness.
Adopt or Shop
Thousands of animals await their forever homes in shelters and rescue organizations. Shelters primarily house dogs and cats, but may include other animals like birds, small mammals and reptiles. Many are strays, owner surrenders, animals from hoarding or abuse cases, and lost animals. They are often publicly funded and have physical facilities, while rescues are generally volunteer-run and may use foster homes. Rescues are often focused on specific breeds or species and can be more selective in their adoption processes.
Breeders raise and care for animals, typically dogs or cats, and produce offspring for sale, adoption or display. Many have a passion for the breed, a desire to improve it and a commitment to preserving specific bloodlines. Ethical breeders are experts in breeding standards, animal genetics and health, and aim to sustain the quality of their specific breed. Registered breeders offer registered dogs that come with paperwork that attests to their lineage or pedigree.
Breeders generally supply newborn dogs and cats, so you would be their first owner; likewise, you would not be the first owner if obtaining a pet from a shelter or rescue.
Whether you adopt a pet from a shelter or purchase it from a breeder, you are helping an animal. If you want a dog or cat on short notice or give it a second chance at life, a shelter or rescue organization is a good option. Breeders may be able to help you find a good match based on your needs and lifestyle, and some even offer health guarantees.
Protecting Pet Health
The concept of pet health insurance has gained in popularity in recent years, driven by rising veterinary costs and an increasing number of pet owners seeking financial protection. It can offset some or most of the costs of diagnosing, treating and managing an illness or injury, providing peace of mind and access to quality care for your pet. Insurance can also help prevent pet owners from making difficult decisions about treatment based on cost, allowing them to focus on their pet’s well-being. Most policies focus on cats and dogs, but some insurers offer specialized plans for birds, rabbits, lizards and exotic pets. Ultimately, it’s your decision whether or not to buy pet health insurance, what coverage to choose, and from which company.
Crossing the Rainbow Bridge
The loss of a beloved companion is something that nearly every pet owner experiences. Everyone’s relationship with their pet is unique, so their grieving process will be too. The event can bring a profound reaction known as “pet loss grief” that can manifest in different ways, such as sorrow, anger, guilt and physical symptoms like difficulty sleeping and decreased appetite. It can affect all ages, including children and the elderly, and is difficult to describe to those who don’t have a pet. Healthy grief, however, gradually lessens in intensity over time.
Affee offers comforting words: “The pet is part of who you are. The more you can make something very alive, and embrace it rather than putting it away, helps in the healing process. That special relationship has created so much in you, so reflect on all the benefits you received from the animal through the years. The memories never go away.”