As educators, our mood is very important. Can pets improve your mood?  For those who love animals, it's virtually impossible to stay in a bad mood when a pair of loving puppy eyes meet yours, or when a super-soft cat rubs up against your hand.  Getting a new best friend can have many stress relieving  benefits.

1. Ions are released when petting your cat or dog that give a bit of euphoria or feeling of well-being to those in the near vicinity.
2. Pets give unconditional love. Pets can be there for you in ways that people can't.  They offer love and companionship, and can also enjoy comfortable silences, keep secrets and are excellent snugglers. And they could be the best antidote to loneliness.
3. Pets encourage you to get out and exercise.  We walk our dogs because they need it and enjoy it more because of the companionship. Because exercise is good for stress management and overall health, owning a dog can be credited with increasing these benefits.

It's important to realize that owning a pet isn't for everyone. Pets do come with additional work and responsibility, which can bring its own stress.  However, for most people, the benefits of having a pet outweigh the drawbacks. Having a furry friend can reduce stress in your life and bring you support when times get tough.

Tammy