Stress is a part of life we all deal with, but what stresses people out the most may surprise you. In honor of Pet Wellness Month, a new survey of 2-thousand pet owners looks into the top sources of stress, for both them and their furry friends. And it suggests they think taking care of a pet is more stressful than being a parent or managing a romantic relationship.
The poll reveals:
- Pet owners are more stressed about their ability to take care of their fur baby (42%), than their relationship with a partner (37%) or their kids (30%).
- About half (51%) believe their pet is also feeling stressed.
- To help their pet feel calmer, people try spending more time outside (47%), connecting with other pets (46%), spending more time with them (44%), a pet therapist (43%) and changing their pet’s diet (38%).
- People think about their pet getting older as much as they think about themselves aging (65% each).
- Signs that let pet owners know their pet is slowing down include less energy (56%), no longer enjoying their favorite activities (54%), and having trouble getting up or down the stairs (51%).
- Those are all similar to the signs that people are getting older, too, including, lack of energy (60%), joint soreness (48%) and not enjoying the things they usually do (48%).
- Just over two-thirds (68%) of pet parents say watching their pet get older and suffer would be very hurtful for them, more than losing something expensive (62%), losing their job (61%) or even breaking up with a partner or divorcing (61%).
Source: SWNS Digital
Scott's Thoughts:
- Taking care of a pet is more stressful than being a parent? Spend a day with my kids 15 years ago and let’s talk!
- This is why I own a cat instead of a dog. If I need to travel or do something a few days, just clean the litterbox and put out a bunch of food and water. Good to go!
- My cat, Blackie, is now approaching 16 years old. I think about the fact that he will be gone soon and it makes me sad. But he has had a good kitty life.