10 ReasonsYou Need a Pet

If you have been thinking about getting a pet, perhaps you need a little encouragement, or maybe you need some ammunition …

… when trying to convince family members that having an animal in the home can be beneficial.

Here's a list of ten reasons why having a pet can be great and why you need one today.

COMPANIONSHIP

If you live alone, or if your spouse or significant other travels frequently, having a pet at home can provide a welcome companion for you.

Whether it's a dog to greet you at the door, a cat to curl up next to you or a bird to sing to you while you fix supper …

… having a healthy fun animal at your home can make you feel less lonely. This is especially true if you have recently lost a partner.

EXERCISE

Having a dog or a horse can provide you with a reason to exercise that you didn't have before.

It can also help you build muscles and get your heart pumping without that feeling you get when you drag yourself to the gym for a workout.

To maximize this benefit of having a pet, be sure to get one that needs regular amounts of exercise, like a poodle or a pony …

… but not so much that you can't handle it, as might happen with a border collie or Thoroughbred stallion.

OTHER HEALTH BONUSES

In addition to getting you out to exercise every day, pets can bring other health benefits too.

Studies show that just petting a dog or cat for a few minutes can improve relaxation and lower blood pressure.

DISCIPLINE

Even having a pet that doesn't need exercise can help you improve your discipline.

If you know you need to be home every night to feed your pet or let it out, you will be more likely to stick to a routine.

The more your pet is dependent on you, the more self-discipline you'll have to muster.

A dog that needs walking every morning, for example, could be a great way to help you get on a healthier morning schedule if you have a tendency to lie in bed too long.

PROTECTION

You don't have to have an enormous dog to get the protection of a pet.

Even the sound of a small, yappy dog sounding the alarm of a potential intruder is enough to scare away most burglars.

Pets have also been instrumental in alerting their owners to smoke and fire in the home.

If the only time you can walk or jog is after dark, having a dog to go with you will make your jaunts significantly safer.

SOCIAL LIFE

If you tend to be shy or are new to your area, having a pet can be a great way to start the conversation and meet new people.

Whether at a puppy class or at the dog park, you'll meet many new folks, most of whom have a lot in common with you because of your dedication to your animals.

Even if you are housebound, joining an online pet forum can be a way to connect with the outside world.

ACTIVITIES

Are you looking for something new to do with your free time? A pet can offer a wealth of opportunities to try different activities.

Of course, there are many dog ventures like fly ball, agility and hospital therapy, but there are also cat and bird shows and even clubs for pet hamsters and snails.

NEW PLACES

Having a dog is one of the best ways getting familiar with new places.

Just walking around your neighborhood, you're sure to find hidden parks and cool architecture.

If you want to travel further afield, hiking with your dog can be a great way to experience the wilderness or your state parks.

There are nature camps as well, for people who want to vacation with their pets.

KIDS

Getting a pet for the kids is a good way to teach them about biology, compassion and responsibility.

Just don't expect them to do the work of adults, and make sure you can handle the duties that come with your pet …

…in case your kids get caught up with school work or take off to camp for the summer.

ENTERTAINMENT

If you read the book "Marley and Me," you know how entertaining pets can be.

You'll have stories for a lifetime when you bring an animal into your life.

Even a tank of beautiful tropical fish can hypnotize you and create a stunning focal point for your living room.

If you're not sure about getting a pet, try starting with an easy keeper, like a turtle or a mellow cat, and work your way up to animals that require more care and attention.

You may find you like having a pet so much your home becomes the neighborhood hangout!

Are you thinking about getting a beautiful portrait of your pet?

An artist by profession, Miri's paintings make a lasting keepsake of your furry or feathered friend.

For more info, please visit Custom Pet Portraits by Miri at www.petportraitsbymiri.com