Michigan Humane is excited to introduce the Better Together series. Better Together celebrates the connection between people and their pets. We recognize that the human-animal bond can extend far beyond one home or one family. There are many ways in which this relationship is already being integrated into other aspects of our daily lives. Every month Better Together will explore different aspects of our community that elevate the relationship between pets and people. From workplaces and businesses to events and activities, we aim to highlight the importance of these places and organizations that are paving the way for a more humane community.
Now that it’s a new year, we’re sure you’ve already created some New Year’s resolutions and are working hard to keep them. Have you considered how your pet can be a part of those resolutions, though? Below are some old and new resolutions that you can take on this year as well as tips and tricks for bringing your furry friend along as you better yourself in 2024.
Getting Active
Exercising is a common New Year’s resolution, but have you ever thought about how you can do that with your pet? Getting active can have many physical and mental benefits for you and your furry companion. A study by the AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association) showed that 31% of the pet owners surveyed had improved physical fitness because of their pets. Working out can lower your blood pressure and stress levels as well as increase your cardiovascular health. It can also help keep you and your pet’s muscles and bones mobile as you both age. As far as dogs go, giving them time to exercise allows them to decompress, which makes them less likely to engage in destructive behaviors in your home. Doing physical fitness with your pet can also strengthen your bond with them. Whether you’re doing yoga in your living room with your cat or going on a walk with your dog, try to incorporate some method of daily exercise into your and your pet’s routine.
Prioritizing Mental Health
The start of a new year is also a great time to start trying to improve and prioritize your mental health. Having a pet by your side can have a significantly positive impact on your mental well-being. In a Nationwide/HABRI survey, 73% of pet owners said that their pet enhances their mental health. Being able to turn to your pet for comfort during a difficult time can make all the difference. Their presence and the relationship that you have with them can help decrease depression, stress, and anxiety. Many pets also require some kind of routine, which can add structure to your life. Being intentional and mindful with your pet can also help their mental health, too! As we begin 2024, try to prioritize carving time out of your week to spend quality time with your pet. If you’re struggling, you’re sure to feel a little better after a fun play session or a relaxing nap with your furry friend.
Strengthening Relationships
Your pets can also help you strengthen relationships; not just the bond that you have with them, but also the connections that you have with the people around you. When you do things with your pet, whether it’s going for a walk or playing with them, you enhance the relationship that the two of you have already established. Dogs specifically can sense your emotional connection to them, including whether you love them. Try to think of ways to build on and strengthen this bond. Small acts such as bringing them along for a quick car ride to run an errand or taking 5 minutes out of the day to brush them can have a big impact on the connection between you and your companion animal.
Whether you’re trying to strengthen current relationships with people that you already have in your life, or you want to cultivate new ones, your pets can play a major role. Pets can give us a reason to be social and create many opportunities to connect with others. One study revealed that 85% of the surveyors believe interacting with pets lowers feelings of loneliness. If you want to catch up with a friend that you haven’t seen in a while, consider asking them if they want to come visit your pet. Or, if you’re looking for new relationships, take a trip to the dog park and see if you meet anyone interesting, both animal and human. Let 2024 be a year of connection for you and your pet!
Making a Difference
Another great New Year’s resolution is to get involved in an organization that is important to you. Putting your time and effort into something meaningful can inspire and motivate you in your personal life. Although you aren’t always able to make a difference with your pet directly by your side, at Michigan Humane you can help thousands of other animals that are searching for their forever homes. And who knows—you might adopt another pet along the way that can continue to help you with your New Year’s resolutions!
Help us support both ends of the leash by getting involved with Michigan Humane. Whether you become a volunteer and can give your time regularly, or you drop off some donations at our shelters now and then, you are making a difference for both the animals and the people at our organization. We hope 2024 is a joyful and successful year for you and your pets!