Family Pets
We can't talk about family without mentioning our most beloved members -- our animal companions. According to the National Institute of Health, the unconditional love and affection we receive from our pets have numerous health benefits."Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure. Other studies have found that animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost your mood." (NIH website) Who better to console us through months of social distancing, giving us moments of joy, a reason to take a walk, and lots of chances to cuddle?
As people searched for connection during the pandemic, many adopted animals for the first time, welcoming a new member to the family. Those who already had pets saw a period of adjustment, as animals were initially confused by their humans' constant presence. They eventually surrendered to delight at the increased attention. Whether fish, fowl, canine, feline, reptile, or other, our pets provided much needed moments of joy, reassurance during long nights, and love to sustain us.
P. 6.10.2020
I have two dogs, four parakeets, and a Guinea pig. One of my dogs is a puppy we got in January. I found that the dogs playing and fighting over toys and bones has been more of a distraction when trying to work from home than my children have been. But the dogs are absolutely LOVING having us home! They get a thousand times more affection and playtime with us had we left the house for school and work every day. They have especially helped my daughter as she did not leave the house at all and missed her friends. The dogs became her true best friends in all this. I was also able to train my puppy in much less time than usual since I was home!
J. 6.9.2020
I actually moved in with a friend right as this was starting, and now live with him and his cat. The cat is a delight, apart from when he pooped under my desk.
M. 6.17.2020
We have three cats...I think they are sick of our smothering them, but they have brought us a lot of joy and comfort ...I see everyone in the family stop by sleeping cats throughout the day for a quick snuggle
L. 6.16.2020
We have chickens, a dog, a gecko and some fish. Leia, our golden retriever dog, has really been loving having us all available to throw her ball for her!
K. 6.21.2020
We considered adopting a dog, but apparently so did everyone else. There aren't a whole lot out there right now available for adoption.
B. 6.19.2020
I adopted a CavaTzu unexpectedly! I was at the mall the day before they closed and an employee came running out to tell us that the dogs were being sold at breed price, which was over 50% off. I wasn’t sure I was ready to be a dog mom but I instantly clicked with who I now call Teddy Bear and I just couldn’t leave him there. They said the manager would only be allowed in once daily to care for the pets. Teddy Bear has improved my life quality SO much!!!
K. 5.27.2020
We have a dog and chickens. We increased our chicken flock so that we were less reliant on the stores for our food.
K. 8.8.2020
I have two cats and a dog and they definitely were a bit weirded out that I was home all day every day.
L. 8.31.2020
I don’t have animals. My children upstairs have a dog And I have my children and grandchildren. They are my pets!
M. 7.7.2020
We have two kittens, they are a bright spot in a dark time. They were surprised when we started staying home all day, I think we interrupted their daily nap schedule! They help keep our garden free of pests, and they play with the kids often.
B. 5.25.2020
I have two cats. They are loving people being home. Although it is a strange set up to get my pet's medications from the Vet. Order from home, call them when I am in the parking lot, give them my credit card over the phone and then someone brings the medication and invoice to me in my vehicle.
L. 8.19.2020
Yes, a new kitten which we didn't plan on getting. We have two other cats and a dog. They are all "frienemies."
J. 8.27.2020
At the start of the pandemic, we had our dog and one cat. Our cat was quite elderly and unfortunately passed away this summer. About a month later, we adopted four kittens which has been a (challenging) wonderful distraction! Our dog has loved having us home all the time, but I anticipate she will have an adjustment period when we start leaving the house more again.
L. 10.16.2020
My dog is a lousy conversationalist but does give me love and affection. She was already in the house when this all happened.
L. 11.4.2020
Yes, my cat and bird passed away during the pandemic. I had to wait in the car during an emergency visit with my cat but they allowed people in the building for end-of-life care.
L. 6.26.2020
At first my boys- my cats- were annoyed because their routine was upended and I kept invading their favorite chair- silly me! We worked it out.
J. 7.2.2020
Yes, three cats. At first they were very excited to have company all day. They took part in Meet and Zoom meetings and had to be shut out of the work area. They were most amusing and comforting. They and I have gained weight.
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