There is an ancient Chinese saying that goes, “May you live in interesting times.”
It is NOT meant as a blessing!
These are indeed interesting times. A pandemic is scary, and we absolutely must take the necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy, but panic or even handwringing serves no one.
Stay as positive as possible and focus on all the wonderful acts of kindness this crisis has stimulated.
Join me in allowing our fur babies to bring us the comfort, reassurance, laughter, tranquility, and LOVE they were born to give.
In the past, when we’ve been sick or depressed, or even just bored, our four-legged kids have been there for us. They seem to know when we need them instinctively, don’t they?
During these weeks of social distancing and isolation, we can Zoom, FaceTime, or chat on the phone with friends and family.
But our doggies and kitties are right here in front of us! The cuddles we give each — along with the unconditional love we have for each other — is one of the best remedies for fear and depression. Now is a great time to strengthen that bond.
Many pets must share their pet-parents with the rest of the world daily. In the last few months, we are with them 24/7. They are totally blissed out right now!
Play more games of fetch in the back yard. Spend time brushing their lovely fur. Send videos of their antics to friends and loved ones. Teach them new tricks. Or cuddle up on the couch, together, and watch old movies.
“Give your dog or cat a head-to-tail therapeutic massage by running hand over hand through the body,” Animal behaviorist, pet-sitting client, and friend Arden Moore says. “Your touch relaxes the animal and releases feel-good endorphins in you, reducing your heart rate.”
Continues Arden: “Happy talk or laughter around animals release hormones in humans that lower blood pressure and make the animals feel better, too.”
So take advantage of this natural and effective therapy without leaving your own home (I know I sure am!). Love on your fur babies and feel better.
I guarantee they’ll feel better, too. And who doesn’t like a win-win, these days?!
