Best Friends Animal Society shares how pets are coping in countdown to historic presidential election
It’s no secret that Americans’ stress levels are on the rise, but staying calm can be especially difficult during an election year. According to a poll released earlier this year by the American Psychiatric Association, about 73% of respondents said they felt anxious about the upcoming election.
Fortunately, solutions often lie at people’s feet. Best Friends Animal Society, a national animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in U.S. shelters, is hoping to help dogs and cats calm down as November 5 approaches. We are sharing some methods that will help you.
Calming presence: Believe it or not, just petting a dog or cat for a few minutes can affect people’s mood. Just being around your pet lowers cortisol, which reduces feelings of stress and anxiety. More than just a cute face: Have you ever looked at a dog or cat and just felt better? Well, that’s no coincidence. Studies have shown that the simple act of making eye contact with your pet releases oxytocin (the love hormone) and dopamine (a neurotransmitter), both of which have been shown to help relieve anxiety and depression. I am. A sense of purpose: Owning a dog or cat means taking responsibility for their health and well-being. This is often proven to instill a sense of purpose and increase feelings of confidence and self-esteem, which are important for improving mental health. The ultimate companion: Just having someone (or something) by your side can make all the difference in the world. Pets provide a sense of security and companionship, which is especially important for people who live alone or spend a lot of time alone.
Looking to bring home some new feel-good items this election season? Consider adopting a pet from a local shelter or rescue organization. According to data from Best Friends, approximately 7 million people plan to own a pet in 2024, and if just 6% more people chose to adopt rather than buy a pet from a breeder or pet store, , there will be no more culling of dogs and cats in our country. country’s refuge.
If you are unable to adopt, consider saving a pet’s life by becoming a foster parent or volunteering at your local animal shelter. To find a shelter or rescue group in your area and learn about other ways to help, visit bestfriends.org/Houston.
