Life can be stressful. More Americans report feeling stressed on a daily basis* in recent years. A quarter of those reporting daily stress say that most days they are so stressed they can’t function. 

There’s someone to help. A furry friend can have major benefits to health*. Interacting with animals can decrease levels of cortisol, a stress-related hormone, and lower blood pressure. 

Animals can reduce loneliness, boost your mood and increase your social support. 

“For me, having a pet gives me a purpose. This can be really important for people who are alone. It is somebody to share your secrets, to laugh with,” says Libba Ulery, adoptions, administration and communications liason at Pawmetto Lifeline* in Columbia. “They can be as aggravating as the dickens, but you know they fill your life with joy and bring you balance.”

Studies show that caring for pets can help people: 

• Learn responsibility. 
• Reduce anxiety. 
• Improve social skills. 
• Provide comfort. 

Ulery shares a few things to consider before adopting a cat or dog. 

Lifetime Commitment 

Bringing home a furry friend can bring a lot of joy. But be prepared for the responsibility, Ulery says. 

“A pet is a lifetime commitment. You have to be ready to be their guardian for their entire life,” she says. “Any pet that you bring into your home is a member of your family.” 

For cats, that can mean 20 years. For small breed dogs, 18 – 19 years. For large breed dogs, 12 – 13 years. 

She recommends elderly people arrange for pet care as part of end-of-life planning. 

Research Breeds 

Dogs and cats have their own personalities. Ulery says it is important to consider your lifestyle when deciding what kind of pet to adopt. Some dog breeds are known to be more energetic. They will need more time for activity. 

A few questions to think about when doing research on pets include:

• Do you spend a lot of time outdoors? 
• Are you very active?
• Do you want a pet that won’t mind spending a lot of time inside? 
• Do you have a fenced in yard? 
• What is your housing situation like — apartment or house? 
• Do you have children or grandchildren to consider? 

Create a Budget

Part of understanding various breeds or types of pets is thinking about the expense of owning the pet. 

For example, small breed dogs usually require grooming. This is an added cost to owning that pet. Some small breed dogs don’t require as much grooming. 

Medical care and food for pets can add up quickly. Be sure you are ready for the bills. 

“Pets are meant to ease stress, not add to it. It’s really important that you are able to care for your pet,” she says. 

Prepare for Change 

Owning a pet can change your lifestyle. For many of us, this is a good thing. Taking a dog for a daily walk will get you outside and moving. Going to a dog park can introduce you to new people. 

“It’s really healthy for you on a lot of different levels, not just physically, but mentally. It keeps you in tune with what’s going on today,” Ulery says. 

Animals often help people be more mindful. Practicing mindfulness can reduce stress. 

Consider Fostering 

There are programs to take care of animals for short-term periods of time as a foster home. This may be a good option for someone who wants the benefits of an animal but can’t do the long-term commitment or cost of a pet, Ulery says. 

“It’s a good way to help with your self-esteem also because you are helping someone else,” she says. “With foster programs, you get the stress reliever, the companionship in your home and you meet other people.” 

Volunteer 

Another way to get involved with animals is to volunteer with rescue operations near you. Pawmetto Lifeline has many different volunteer opportunities*. 

“Maybe owning a pet isn’t the right fit for you. But if you miss having that connection, volunteering can be a great way to get the benefits of being around animals,” Ulery says. 

*These links lead to third-party websites. Those organizations are solely responsible for the contents and privacy policies on their sites. 

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