They bring us joy, comfort, and unconditional love. They’re always happy to see us, even on our worst days. They’re there for us when we need them the most. They’re our loyal and furry (or scaly) friends — and we love them like family.

It’s no wonder why pets are such an important part of our lives. In fact, according to a 2019–2020 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 67 percent of U.S. households own a pet — that’s nearly 84 million homes! Here’s a closer look at why we love our pets and why they play such an important role in our lives.

Pets Bring Joy and Happiness into Our Lives
Pets have a way of brightening even the gloomiest of days. They offer us unconditional love and companionship when we need it most. Just watching them play can bring a smile to our face or help chase away the blues. Numerous studies have shown the positive physical and mental health benefits of owning a pet, including reducing stress, anxiety, and depression; improving cardiovascular health; and even lengthening our life span.

Pets Help Us Connect with Others
Pets also help us connect with others — both two-legged and four-legged kind. For introverts or those who have difficulty making friends, pets can provide much-needed social interaction and help reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation. They can also be a great conversation starter, helping you meet new people when you’re out walking your dog or at the park playing with your children and their pets.

Pets Teach Us Responsibility
Caring for a pet also teaches children (and adults!) responsibility, empathy, compassion, patience, and other important life skills. For example, children who grow up caring for a pet learn to take on daily tasks such as feeding, walking, and cleaning up after their animal friend — skills that will serve them well when they leave home for college or enter the workforce. Caring for a pet also requires patience as animals often communicate differently than we do; this helps teach children (and adults) how to better understand and respond to the needs of others.

There are so many reasons why we love our pets — they make us happier and healthier people while teaching us important life skills along the way. If you don’t have a pet but are thinking about getting one, consider all the joy (and cuddles!) they’ll bring into your life!

Join us in our journey on writing about our experiences with these animals that we choose to include in our lives as pets and companions.