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The following content is created in partnership with the San Francisco SPCA. It does not reflect the work or opinions of the NBC Bay Area editorial staff. Click here to learn more about the San Francisco SPCA.
Bringing home a pet isn’t just about finding a cute new cuddle buddy—it’s about welcoming joy, comfort, and connection into your life in ways that are both heartwarming and scientifically proven. When you bond with your pet, you’re setting off a chain reaction of emotional and physical benefits that can transform your well-being. And now, the San Francisco SPCA makes it easier than ever to experience that magic; with their new virtual adoption program, you can meet adoptable pets online and find your perfect match without leaving your home. Here’s why adopting a furry friend might be the best decision you make this year—both for you and for them.
They provide a mood boost and improve mental health
We know animals can put a smile on our face, but they can literally improve our psychological wellness—what an impressive feat from our four-legged friends. Just petting a dog or cat results in a surge of feel-good brain chemicals: oxytocin, a hormone linked to feelings of love and bonding; serotonin, which promotes feelings of well-being and happiness; and dopamine, known for its association with motivation and pleasure. This natural chemical shift can leave you calmer, happier, and better equipped to handle life’s ups and downs. In fact, research shows that pets can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, two conditions associated with a lack or imbalance of those critical happiness hormones.
They inspire more movement, without the gym membership
Whether it’s daily walks, backyard playtime, or chasing their favorite toy, pets inspire us to move more. According to a study published in The New York Times, dog owners spent close to 300 minutes a week walking with their dogs, about 200 more minutes of walking than people without dogs. Even light physical activity has been linked to improved cardiovascular health, stronger muscles, and better mood regulation.
They provide stress-relief
Playing and interacting with pets has been shown to lower cortisol levels, a key hormone associated with stress. Maybe it’s their nonjudgemental nature or perhaps it’s the comfort provided by their companionship. Either way, their antics and love are a great antidote to stress, according to science.
They help foster community
Taking your dog to a dog park or spending time with fellow cat-lovers offers opportunities to connect with people in your area—and pets have a way of breaking the ice. They also create communities of like-minded people who love animals and understand the importance of adoption for the greater good. According to a study by SSM-Population Health conducted across cities from Perth to Nashville, dog owners are five times more likely to get to know their neighbors. And even after adjusting for demographic factors that might affect people’s connectivity to their neighborhood, the study found that owning a pet was strongly linked with higher social capital. Simply put, pets encourage civically engaged communities and stronger social ties.
They teach empathy and responsibility
As evidenced by science, pets have a profound impact on their adult humans. But especially for families with children, adopting a pet is an excellent lesson in compassion and empathy. Kids learn what it means to nurture another being and consider the welfare of all living creatures, all while building emotional intelligence that lasts a lifetime.
Adopting saves lives while improving your own
Adopting animals is intrinsically good for a plethora of reasons. On a practical level, it saves the life of an animal in need and creates more shelter space for another, all while offering companionship, helping humans, and improving communities.
Find your perfect pet with the San Francisco SPCA—in person or through the new virtual adoption program. If you can’t adopt or foster right now, you can still make a difference by donating or volunteering. Click here to explore all the ways you can help save animals today.
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