The Joy and Chaos of Being a Pet Parent
The best things in life are often those that can cause the most stress. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or are thinking about adopting your first furry friend, pet ownership can bring incredible joy, unconditional love, and just the right amount of chaos. Here’s what to expect about experiencing the joy and chaos of being a pet parent.
Joy: Love That’s Easy to Earn
Pets don’t love conditionally. In fact, sometimes all you have to do to earn their love is to be there. Everyone can benefit from having a little extra love in their life, and a pet is a great way to get it. If you want to experience unconditional love that adds incredible joy to your life, it might be time to bring a pet into your home (or give a squeeze to the ones you have).
Chaos: Some Training Is Required
Without training, some pets can be chaotic in your home. From chewed shoes to accidents indoors, this chaos will definitely add a bit of excitement to your space. If you want to increase joy and decrease destruction, we recommend spending some time training your new pet.
Joy: Simple Things Become More Fun
Having a furry friend in your home makes simple activities much more fun. Anything from going for a walk to snuggling on the couch now brings a companion who will find joy in the simplest of tasks. And, if you let it, that joy can be very contagious.
Chaos: You Might Have Less Alone Time
Some pets become their owners’ shadows. If you’re used to plenty of alone time, you might have to give that up when you bring an animal into the home. No more solo trips to the bathroom or some alone time cooking. If you exercise at home, you might have a new workout buddy (who actually makes it harder to do the movements). Try to remember they’re only following you because they love you, and that’s really cool when you think about it.
Joy: Health Benefits
Owning a pet makes you more likely to be more active. Whether you’re taking your dog for daily walks or playing tag with your cat in the house, you’ll likely increase your step count with a pet. Additionally, spending time with animals has been found to lower stress hormones and increase happiness hormones.
Chaos: A Messier House
If you have a pet, your house will likely be messier than usual. From pet hair to slobber, vomit to a dirty litter box, pets can make a bit of a mess. You can still have a clean house with pets, but it might take more effort.
A Joy Worth All the Chaos
At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services, we hope you choose the joy and chaos of being a pet parent. We believe that a life with pets is worth the chaos. Check out our blog for tips on increasing joy for you and your furry friends. We also offer a wide range of specialty and emergency veterinary services for help when you need it. Call (248) 334-6877 to learn more.
