We are knee-deep in the holidays already, and the lists to accomplish seem to only get longer. This season is about giving and being grateful, but it often becomes overwhelming - leaving you more distant to those who love you the most.

Your furbaby loves you unconditionally. He is there for you on your best and worst days, and he will continue to be there for you through all of life’s ups and downs. This simple and kind gesture is one that tends to be forgotten throughout the season of giving and showing thanks. So let’s all take a moment out of the craziness to give thanks for all our pets do for us.

6 Reasons to Be Grateful for Your Pet

They bring us happiness.

From the first moment your furbaby stepped into your life, your heart grew. We all love our pets, but the happiness they bring us is different than other forms of the emotion. Perhaps it’s their genuine happiness that is contagious?

They make us laugh.

Every animal has its own personality, and most of those personalities provide humor in just about every scenario. If you’ve gone longer than a day without laughing out loud while in the company of your pet, then you probably aren’t giving him enough attention.

They teach us about everything. 

It’s true that research has shown taking care of an animal teaches empathy, responsibility, patience, and kindness. And any fur-parent understands that so much more happens, too. There are lessons in anger; lessons in fear. There are lessons in heartache and joy, too. Everything that we learn from our animals translates into our human relationships. We are better partners, friends, and caregivers because of them.

They hold us accountable.

Even when we don’t want to, our furbabies remind us that sucking it up and completing things is a must-do in life. Rain, snow, or sleet, our pets depend on us for food, water, exercise, and shelter. 

They keep us (somewhat) fit.

From long walks to stealing our food, our pets try their darnedest to keep our waistlines on the trim size! All joking aside, exercising alongside an animal provides more motivation than going at it alone.

They provide friendship.

You can talk, enjoy a glass of wine, and share your deepest secrets. Some may argue that a pet is a better friend than the human version, due to their ability to listen attentively, provide emotional support, and keeping their nose out of your business! You can, however, treasure your relationships - both human and animal, of course.

This Thanksgiving, let’s all include our faithful and special furbabies in our blessings.