Why Do We Like Pets So Much?

I continue to be intrigued by our society's affinity for having pets, be they dogs, cats, birds, horses, rabbits or even snakes. Why do we have so many pets?  If one were to quantify the economic value of the "pet industry", I think that we might be staggered by what an economic powerhouse this industry really is.  Have you been to a vet lately?  So, being the ever curious, I decided to do some research.  Thanks to the internet, I consulted three "experts" - first a psychologist, second, scientists from the California Institute of Technology and third, none other than Oprah herself.  What did I learn?

1. The Psychologist - In an article published last year in Psychology Today, we learn than the simple answer is that pets make us happy.  "If there is a purer, less complicated joy than that of making an animal happy, I have yet to experience it. And there's something deeply fulfilling about knowing that, even in a complicated and often unkind world, you've managed to create a pocket of perfect security and bliss for at least one small creature."
2. The Research Scientists - CalTech scientists have difficulty dealing with esoteric concepts such as "happiness" and instead focus on how our brain functions in the presence of pets. They actually measured activity levels in different segments of the brain in the presence of animals.  Surprisingly, there was little difference between a cuddly cat and dangerous pit viper.  "Our study shows that neurons in the human amygdala respond preferentially to pictures of animals, meaning that we saw the most amount of activity in cells when the patients looked at cats or snakes versus buildings or people".  Their conclusion - we are hardwired to love pets.
3. Oprah - For the definitive answer, I was sure that Oprah could set us straight. The right pet emboldens us. "People who think of themselves as socially inept often choose dogs who are very socially assured. I've heard from so many people who say, 'I was always painfully shy, but my whole life has changed because of the confidence I feel with my dog by my side.'" Forget the "crazy cat lady" stereotype. Try "compassionate cat guy" instead. "The male cat owners I've worked with are incredibly empathetic, sweet, intuitive, tender people." The Prophet Muhammad may have been the earliest Cat Guy: "His cat fell asleep on his sleeve, and when he had to move, he cut the cloth rather than wake the cat—he couldn't bear to disturb it. Any cat lover can relate."
   Stop wagging the dog… "Do you love your animal, or do you love loving your animal? If you treat your dog like a dress-up doll, chances are that its needs aren't being met, because you're projecting a fantasy. There are times when I just have to tell my clients, 'Put the dog on the floor!'"…and let the love in. "In all of our relationships, we need not only to give affection but to see that affection reflected back to us—we want to know that the other being enjoys it. So a dog wagging his tail or a purring cat closes the relationship loop for us in a very profound, nurturing way."

There you have it.  For whatever the reason, we do love our pets and pets represent a very large economic industry segment.  Have fun with your pet(s) and be sure to shop local at Horizon Pet Supply and don't forget to also get a pet license from the City - it's in your best interests and does serve to help us fund essential animal control services.

Comments

[Rick Ryerse]

Craig,
Thank you for the informative and well written article. I will share it with my family.
Rick

[Craig]

Thanks. Still planning to get back to you regarding our beaver friends. Will be in touch.