Does being more upset about animals than humans mean that we love them more? Is something wrong with us? Why do we sometimes seem to care more about our pets than our neighbours?
Empathy and compassion
The ability to share and understand the feelings of other people is a very complex skill that we as humans possess. It is therefore important to know the definition of empathy . This is “the ability to sense another person’s feelings, combined with the ability to imagine what someone might be thinking or experiencing.” Compassion is more than empathy. Compassion is not just about understanding another person’s pain, but also having the motivation and desire to relieve it. Compassion can lead to actions that help or support others who are in need.
We are increasingly numb to other people’s suffering due to the constant barrage of media violence, death and despair. Social media also contributes to our growing lack of empathy. Why is it easy to feel empathy for animals in pain?
There is a bond between humans and animals, which many of us share, because they need our attention, care, and support. We can compare the natural affection that we have for animals to our love for children. We care about them impulsively and want to help them, because they can’t help themselves. We believe that adults can defend themselves or speak out for their rights.
Pets have many benefits
But our reasons for caring about animals are not just based on empathy. Animals, and especially our pets, offer humans many powerful benefits. Immortalise your beloved pets with Bronze Animal Sculptures by https://www.gillparker.com/
Pets have many social benefits
Studies show that animal lovers and pet owners are less likely than others to feel lonely. Studies show that pet ownership is associated with a lower level of social isolation, and an increased social support.
Pets can help you connect to friendly people. When a person is walking their dog or in the dog park, people are more likely to approach them and start a conversation. Talking about your pet is a great conversation starter.
Pets have many physical benefits
It has been shown that spending time with a dog can lower blood pressure and reduce stress hormones. Additionally, it releases chemicals which trigger relaxation, even when you have a lot to do. Pets also improve social support. This has been shown to improve cardiovascular, immune, and endocrine function. Pet owners are generally healthier (both mentally and physically) than non-pet owners.
Pets can provide mental and emotional benefits
Many of us yearn for unreserved love. We want someone to love us as we are. They should have zero expectations, and be always happy to see you no matter how miserable we feel. We want unconditional love. This precious commodity is hard to find in human relationships, especially for adults. However, pets can fill this need.
How dogs benefit our health
Part of our affection for pets may come from how much they do for us. Homes with dogs have a more diverse mix of germs, and families who own them appear to fall ill less often and less severely. Children who grow up with dogs are less likely to develop allergies, and studies suggest this resistance can even begin in the womb, with babies showing bacteria that lower the risk of asthma and eczema.
Dogs are good for the heart as well. Stroking a dog lowers blood pressure, and regular walks can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and lower cholesterol. Because dogs need walking and playing with, most owners get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day.
The emotional benefits are just as real. Sharing life with a dog lowers the risk of depression and can lift mood for those already living with it. The routine keeps owners active and more likely to talk to others, and the loyalty and affection dogs show releases feel-good chemicals in the brain.
Pets bringing comfort to care home residents
Our love of animals shows up in some unexpected places, including care homes. Stroking a cat, dog or other pet has been linked with lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety and a boost in the body’s natural relaxation hormones, and many residential homes around the country now bring animals in for residents to stroke and handle.
Care homes approach this in different ways. Some let residents bring their own beloved pets with them when they move in. Others keep one or two animals living on site, while some arrange visits from animals on an occasional basis.
The results can be striking. Contact with animals has helped many elderly, long term residents, including those living with dementia, to socialise with one another and take part in other activities. Residents who had refused to join in with anything, or even to leave their rooms, have been coaxed out of isolation and calmed by the simple comfort of a friendly dog or cat.