As a nation of pet lovers, we all adore our pets!
One trait that makes us all human is the ability and desire to love our pets, so it makes sense that we should all come together to celebrate their existence. Loving our pets is true evidence that actions speak louder than words as although we have never shared a conversation with our pets, we adore and thrive with their companionship.
February really is the month of love.
First, we celebrated Valentines day and now on the 20th, we get to show our pets just how much we adore them. For this year’s national love your pet day, we will be exploring the bond that we have with these creatures and why it is a good excuse as any to show our pets that we love having them around!
So why do we love our pets?
There are the obvious benefits of having pets like companionship, helping with feelings of loneliness and the pets need for exercise inspiring people to become healthier. Pets also help us with increased social interaction and provide support for people dealing with difficult times such as poor mental health, bereavement or loss.
There has also been scientific evidence to show that pets provide benefits for people’s health and wellbeing. For example, it has been shown that people who have pets are more likely to live longer. This is because the presence of a pet brings a positive effect upon our mental health and wellbeing.
When it comes to scientific studies around the human and animal bond, there are many theories in why we choose to be close to and love our pets. One of the theories called stress-reduction, looks into how animals can reduce a person’s stress levels. For example, when being stroked, animals release ‘happy chemicals’ themselves but they also increase these chemicals levels in humans. These include chemicals such as: serotonin, dopamine and adrenaline.
Another theory, social support theory, looks at emotional, practical and informal support through supportive human relationships, for example how dog walking can increase social interactions with people.
Another popular theory is attachment theory which investigates how the attachment between humans and animals mirror a parent – child relationship. A 2019 study revealed that cats have the same attachment to their owners that babies show to their parents!
So what can we do to show our pets that we love them?
Take dogs out for a wellness and enriching dog walk
A wellness and enriching dog walk can really help our dogs feel comfortable and calm in their environment. This type of dog walk is not our usual getting from A to B walk but is instead a big opportunity for our dogs to sniff as much as they want to and be out as long as they would like. As sniffing helps dogs learn more about their environment, they are more likely to enjoy this type of walk and it might even tire them out more than your usual walk!
Treat them with a new toy
We love to spoil our pets with toys and what better day to do this than National Love Your Pet Day! You do not even have to buy a toy for them but you can instead create a new toy. See below for our how-to sheets on pop-pom toys for cats, hay balls for our small animals, destruction boxes for dogs and snuffle mats for any pet – just add their favourite treat.
All of these toys can be made with items that you might find in your home and your pet will adore them! Click the images to enlarge.
Play their favourite game
Why not play your pet’s favourite game to show that you love them? This could be a game of hide and seek with a treat hidden behind a pillow or even a game of fetch in the garden.
Treat them to a spa day
How about treating our pets to a groom or even massaging some pet safe balm onto their pads and noses to help with any dryness. Most animals need to be brushed regularly and this is a great time to do it to ensure they are kept clean and tidy. We have fantastic groomers onsite here where you can surprise your pooch with a groom to show them you love them! Check out Short Bark & Sides dog grooming services based at the Shelter.
Make some fun and easy treats at home
Along with making toys at home, we can also hand bake some animal treats! See below for our how-to sheets on treats for our pets.
The best way to show our pet we love them is by making sure they are healthy and safe.
Ensure your pet is up to date with their vaccinations and carry out a health check to make sure they are feeling the best they can be!
