The Amazing Human-Animal Bond
I get emotional just thinking about the love and bond I have with my cat Truvy. As a veterinarian, I see dogs and cats every day and my love for animals is what keeps me going. My feelings about Truvy are different. There’s something there that I don’t have with every animal. As a pet owner you know what I mean. This feeling is the connection and the power of the positive human-animal bond. I know Truvy feels the same too.
In general, the human-animal bond relates to the relationship and experience between humans and animals. The relationship can be positive, negative, neutral, or dynamic. Human interactions and relationships have been greatly explored for centuries. The way we interact and feel for animals is an area we are diving deeper into.
Animals have always been appreciated and even worshiped in certain cultures. For a large part of history, animals were valued for physical abilities and work duties. Hunting, herding, guarding, and transportation were reasons people kept animals. As time evolved, these animals became more domesticated and served as entertainment or companionship.
We now know that a positive bond with your pet has more benefits than we ever imagined. Like everyone, I have times when I am upset. Truvy knows raising my voice or crying is unusual for me and causes her concern. Her behavior is truly amazing. She will run over to me and start touching my face or pawing at my chest. I’m still not sure if she is trying to comfort me or my reactions are causing her distress or maybe both. I do know that she helps me during these moments, and her abilities to recognize my stress amazes me. In turn, I want to provide her with the best quality of life I can. Do you have a toy basket for your pet too?
Research has shown a positive human-animal bond can lower blood pressure, help heart and mental health, reduce stress, help kids and veterans, decrease loneliness, and promote a longer life. Pets are acting as service animals to help many health conditions.
As a veterinarian, my role is to help you and your pet maintain a healthy and happy bond. I take my part in strengthening a beneficial relationship for both you and your pet seriously. I understand pet ownership isn’t always a pretty picture. Pet ownership can be challenging and stressful. I am here to help you both navigate a positive relationship. As part of my commitment, I have a human-animal bond certification and continue to learn more. I look forward to learning more about you and your pet. Come see us at Neighborhood Vet in Savannah, GA. Check In now.
Examples of how we try to make the human-animal bond better at Neighborhood Vet:
-Making medicating your pet easier by offering injectables, flavored medications, and medications absorbed through the skin
-Your pet stays by your side the entire vet visit
-We manage pain in senior pets
-We give solutions for common behavioral concerns
-Neighborhood Vet carries vet approved products by Tailsy Pet including interactive toys and treats
For more information:
https://www.zoetispetcare.com/benefits-of-pets
Stay Well- Dr. Kinsey
