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Pets are known all over the world to improve our lives. They are natural, cuddly to remove stress which can improve cardiovascular health and reduce depression.
That’s why it’s a good idea for nurses to adopt a pet of their own, especially if they’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or another mental health issue.
If you’re thinking, “But what if I’m not a beastman?” consider the different types of pets you can own besides cats and dogs. You may have some frustrations deciding what type of pet is right for you and how much maintenance you’re willing to put in, but who knows? You may find that owning a pet that loves you is worth it.
Why Pets Can Make You Happier
Nurses know that job burnout can happen. Or, you may experience depression and anxiety outside of your career. However, caring for a pet can have many benefits that can make your life brighter and fuller.
“They provide companionship, unconditional love, and a sense of purpose, which can be particularly beneficial for nurses who work long, demanding changes in the health care profession,” said Adam Zagha, a specialist in mental health and addiction treatment and owner of Numa Recovery Centers.
In her experience, Zagha has even seen how pets can make a difference in those struggling with common mental health conditions, which cause burnout and loneliness.
“One of my clients, a nurse working in an intensive care unit, was experiencing high levels of stress and emotional exhaustion. She decided to adopt a rescue cat and noticed an immediate improvement in her mood and general well-being, Zagha said. “The cat gave him company in his downtime and gave him something to look forward to when he got home from work.”
Caring for a pet can also bring stability outside of an unpredictable work routine, according to veterinarian Dr. Mollie Newton, founder of PetMeTwice. Pets can provide comfort and emotional support at home, encouraging nurses to destress and find peace.
Tips for Adopting and Caring for a Pet
You probably love dogs. Or cat lover. Perhaps you prefer a pet with less hair and can adopt a hamster instead. Either way, there is no “one size fits all” pet that works for everyone.
Dr. suggests Newton self-sufficient pets like cats or smaller pets like hamsters, guinea pigs, or fish for busy professionals. Consider the common fish you find in a pet shop, such as bettas, guppies, and zebrafishthat you will feed every day, along with your biggest task is cleaning the fish tank.
Dogs and cats are usually the most popular choices for adoption because of their versatility.
“Cats are generally more independent, comfortable being alone for long periods of time, and content to nap or watch the world go by from a window,” says Dr. Newton. “For dog lovers, adult dogs, especially those with lower energy levels, can often adapt to being alone during your work hours, making them a suitable choice.”
Before adopting a pet, consider researching where to adopt and getting advice on caring for your pet type so you know what to expect when faced with any challenges.
“To get started with pet adoption, nurses can contact their local animal shelters or rescue organizations,” Zagha said. “These organizations often have a variety of pets available for adoption and can guide pet care, including the specific needs of different breeds.”
Finally, consider how much time and energy you have to devote to caring for a pet. Zagha notes that being mindful of limitations and thinking about how much attention you can devote to your work can help you decide whether to adopt. Other adoption factors include allergies, housing restrictions, and lifestyle.
Owning a pet isn’t just a walk in the park (literally)— there are factors to consider, like paying a pet deposit or personal considerations, like whether we want to walk your dog every day. Ask any pet owner, however, and you’ll get the same response. Caring for a pet can be worthwhile, especially during our down times when we can appreciate their loyal company.
Karie Pinnix is a public relations strategist and freelance journalist with experience writing content for print and broadcast platforms and doing branding development at start-up companies. She writes about topics such as college nightlife, community organizations in Mississippi, and the nursing shortage during the COVID-19 pandemic. When she’s not working, you can find her exploring nature, catching up on reading, or taking a trip to the nearest beach.
