Have you ever had a really bad day at work or school and just wanted to go home and sleep for eternity? You sit in the car or on the bus and plan how to survive without ever leaving your room for the rest of the year. I know I have, but there is always one thing that makes me stop the march to my bed when I get home. My dog.

Whether it is a cat, a dog, a lizard, or any other pet, you can’t help but feel a rush of joy

Each time they greet you. The gentle love of a pet that is so excited to see you can instantly raise spirits. This living creature loves to see you and just wants to be with you 24/7. Cuddling with your furry baby after a long and hard day is one of the most rewarding feelings in the world.

When we hug our pets our brains release the hormone Oxytocin, which is often referred to as the “ love hormone” because it is released when we hug or touch something we love. The release of Oxytocin is extremely beneficial to our health and can even help us live longer.

Pets also contribute to our lives with others. First, they give us something to have in common with other people and discussing your pet can be a great conversation starter with new people.

According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, owning a pet contributes to children’s self esteem and self confidence, and building a positive relationship with a pet can help the development of trusting relationships with humans.

“My two dogs have impacted my life by making it so much better, especially when I see them when I get home. They make me appreciate the small things in life.” says senior, Ciara Mooney.

Pets also provide such amazing contributions to everyday life such as service and therapy dogs. These dogs help veterans with PTSD that need constant comfort and they help children with autism learn to read and other life skills. They also help the blind, and people with other conditions who need help getting around. These pets have gone through rigorous training just to help us humans, their beloved owners.

The impact a pet can have on our lives is irreplaceable and lasts forever. Even when a pet dies, the impact they had will shape who we are forever. Big, small, furry, or scaly, our pets are one of the greatest gifts humans have.