Bundle of happiness

Being a pet owner is one of life’s most enriching experiences. Not only do dogs and cats make for wonderful companions, but people also experience therapeutic benefits from being around them. These furballs are incredibly intuitive and have an uncanny knack for sensing one’s mood and sometimes, can even detect things beyond our understanding. So if you’ve had a particularly bad day, you just need to head home to your beloved fuzzball, who is waiting to shower some love on you! Pets are in love with their owners and always excited to see them. Dogs, especially, can tell how your mood is and react accordingly. Pets are also the only creatures you can share your innermost feelings with, without fearing judgement.

Brinda Sanyal, a student, believes her dog helped cure her depression and reduce her anxiety levels. So Goldy isn’t just her dog but is her brother and best friend. “Whenever I am angry or upset, I hug him. Then I feel really relaxed. He gets to know very easily when I am upset,” she says.

Shreya, an artist who owns a cat, says it’s her Eva who taught her to enjoy life.

Shreya Varakedhar, an artist who owns a cat, says it’s her Eva who taught her to enjoy life. “I found my cat when I was in a very crucial situation when nothing was going right. She was just one month old. I took her and left town to travel. She was the best companion during a time when I had no one to hear me out.” Eva loves to stay warm so she sneaks her inside her blanket and the cat neatly settles down near her hand or tummy.

It’s then no wonder that sleeping with your pets can be the best form of therapy for some. By keeping you warm, safe and happy, they have a positive effect on your mental health.

Mohd. Afra Sherlyn has two pet kittens named Crystal and Caramel, who make her feel alive. Watching them play gives her immense joy. These little balls of fur are also her biggest stress busters. “After Crystal and Caramel came into my life, I have changed a lot, be it in terms of character, my perceptions and much more,” shares Afra.