This holiday, you may have trouble with the traditional familial interactions, especially if you had a depressing with Thanksgiving. Well, your solution may be a furry little friend! Let’s ponder how a pet can be the solution to both physical and mental issues you may experience, as well as which animal would be best for you!
There are many physical benefits that owning a pet can bring you. For one, the presence of a companion animal has been proven to ease stress and reduce anxiety levels. For example, one study shows that Group A had an overall easier time solving math problems with the presence of a cat or dog in the room, versus Group B, who did not have a companion. Group A experienced lower heart rates and stress, and they made fewer mistakes. They have similar effects on children, as studies have shown that the presence of a dog or cat in routine doctor visits reduces blood pressure levels, lower heart rates, and less behavioral issues. (Zuckerman) In terms of allergens, research has been mixed. However, signs are pointing to the possibility that having a pet cat or dog puts you at lower risk of developing cat or dog allergies. “Our conclusion is that having a cat or dog in the house for some reason puts you at lower risk of having the indicators for allergy,” says Christine Cole Johnson, director of Cancer Epidemiology Prevention and Control at the Josephine Ford Cancer Center in Detroit. However, Cole warned that this would not extend to asthma, as 10% of children in their studies contracted the disease.
A pet can also improve mental health. Specifically, it’s been shown to help those struggling with depression. They can reduce tension and improve your mood in many ways, such as by providing a routine for you to follow, helping you exercise by taking walks, and provides a relationship that isn’t complicated with words or any social issues you might have. (Doheny) “Pets offer an unconditional love that can be very helpful to people with depression,” says Ian Cook, psychiatrist and director of the Depression Research and Clinic Program at UCLA. Many with depression struggle with anxiety as well, and the soft fur of a cat or dog can give them something they can hold onto during a panic attack that helps calm them down.
If you believe you want a pet of your own, but you aren’t sure what to get, then you may want to analyze your needs and which animal would suit you best. If you wish to motivate yourself to exercise more, a dog might be your match, since they love to go outside. They also make for great friends when you’re alone. For those who want a pet that’s not as high maintenance as a dog, you might consider a cat, hamster, or mouse. They don’t require as much physical activity as a dog, but still provide a steady routine as well as an adorable friend to play with. A bird isn’t a bad idea either, though they’ll certainly be louder than the average pet. Just remember to consider all of your options before choosing your new pet, as it is quite a large step to take.
To finish, consider what issues you have during the holidays, both physical and mental. A furry friend may be just the solution to all of your worries.

Works Cited
Doheny, Kathleen. “Pets for Depression and Health.” 3 August 2012. WebMD. Web. 8 December 2015.
Zuckerman, Dana Casciotti and Diana. “Pets and Health: The impact of companion animals.” 2015. National Center for Health Research. Web. 8 December 2015.