Adopting a pet is a big responsibility. Should you adopt one during a crisis?

Shelters all over the world are reporting an increase in the adoption of pets during the COVID-19 crisis. Most of the world is under quarantine regulations and a pet can bring much needed love, distraction and normality to a single person or a family. But is it a good idea to adopt a pet during a crisis?

Here are some reasons why it makes sense to bring a grateful four-legged soul into your house during periods of mandatory isolation.

Do you have spare time?

Many people are not working during this quarantine and have plenty of spare time to devote to caring for a pet. 

Do you want to Help?

The desire to help in periods of crisis is innate in everyone during a crisis. Shelters and animal rescue organizations always have too many animals than homes for them, so adopting a shelter pup or kitten is lessening their load.

Is returning to a sense of normality important?

Pets can bring structure to a household as well as teaching responsibility to children. As all domesticated pets do better on a well schedule, this will give you or your family a sense of purpose.

Do you feel loneliness or isolation?

If you have a pet in the household, you will never be alone. Dogs especially will comfort you when you are feeling down and always be there when you need them.

Do you understand the health benefit of adopting a pet?

It is a proven fact that bonding with and caring for a pet has a direct relation to your health. Being around pets can cause a chemical chain reaction in the brain that may help to lower stress hormones. It also increases the production of the hormone serotonin which makes us feel good.

We all know that walking is good exercise. As you will be doing that daily with your pet, the exercise will be good for both of you.

Will you enjoy the love and devotion an adopted pet will offer?

Not enough can be said for the love and devotion that a pet can offer you. Pets have the ability to sense our emotions and can be a source of comfort to those stressed during confinement.

These are some benefits of adopting a pet during a crisis. What will it take to care for this new addition to your household? What are some other things you should consider before fostering or adopting a pet?  Find out more here.