Celebrating National Pet Day: Companionship in Later Living

Falling on the 11th April each year, National Pet Day celebrates the joy that our furry friends inject into our everyday lives. 

National Pet Day is a chance to recognise the incredible bond we share with our animal companions. From our canine counterparts, to our feline friends, pets bring so much to our lives - from companionship and partnership to physical health benefits:

Happy hormones

Plenty of studies suggest that spending time with animals can release oxytocin and serotonin, promoting feelings of happiness and wellbeing. Further research by HelpGuide emphasises that pets, especially dogs and cats, can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression; easing feelings of loneliness.

Physical wellbeing

Many of our animal companions need time in the great outdoors, this is not only beneficial to our pets but also us humans! A simple walk around the park can improve our fitness levels, such as improved cardiovascular health, and can also look after our mental wellbeing. The NHS states that a brisk 10-minute daily walk has lots of health benefits, such as boosting your mood, and improving sleep. 

Easing anxiety and preventing loneliness

In a recent report 66% of pet owners said pets provide a calming presence. One of the biological benefits pets give us is relieving anxiety as it lowers your heart rate and blood pressure. 

Similarly, the presence of a pet can help reduce feelings of loneliness. The reluctance to leave the house is a common symptom of loneliness, so having to walk a dog not only encourages outside physical fitness but it also increases the frequency and likelihood of real life human-human interactions. 

Conversation starters

The simple act of a morning stroll with your dog, can encourage friendly interaction from fellow dog-walkers, puppy enthusiasts, and passers-by. 

A sense of purpose

Pet ownership entails a range of caretaking duties. Even a basic task like feeding the cat can introduce a gentle daily structure, enhancing feelings of purpose. Having a dependable companion and the unconditional love pets give us enhances our mental wellbeing; improving our mood and outlook. This routine can also bring a welcome distraction from worries. Research has even shown that dog and cat owners laugh more daily than non-pet owners.

Celebrating National Pet Day

For pet owners and non-pet owners alike, we are sharing ways we can celebrate together today.

Extra joy 

Indulge your pet with a longer playtime of their favorite game or an extended evening walk.

Treat time

Playing with toys can be beneficial to many pets by stimulating their minds. Purina highlights that playing with your dog on a daily basis not only keeps your pet active but can help you alleviate stress as it can be rewarding training your pet. Why not gift them with a new toy or a nutritious tasty treat!

Volunteering

Many animal charities and shelters rely on the help of volunteers as well as donations. Perhaps, consider contributing to your local shelter, either financially or by volunteering your time. Even the smallest acts of assistance are greatly valued.

Community events

National Pet Day is often marked by community-organised festivities, such as pet parades, picnics, and pet-friendly gatherings. They not only bring together pet owners and their four-legged companions together, they often help strengthen awareness of animal charities. The organisation, All About Dog Shows, hosts events across the country for dogs and their owners to enjoy at various locations including Newbury Showground on 12-13th April. 

Pets of Pegasus

At Pegasus, we understand that our pets are part of the family and many of our communities welcome your four-legged companions to join us, and become a ‘Pegasus Pet’.