If you saw my last blog about my dog Larry passing just two days before Christmas, you’ll know how much love she brought into my life and the kindness I received when I lost her.
Love really is all you need. It may be a Beatles song from 1967, but even almost 60 years later, it still rings true.
Being loved, and having people to love, is really what life is all about — even if the one you love, and who loves you back, is your furry companion. It’s still a beautiful blessing.
How many pet rescues are there in the UK? There are over 1,000 in England alone, with many more in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. With the RSPCA reporting that an estimated 2.7 million pets pass through rescue each year in the UK, that’s an awful lot of love that needs giving. Here’s their report if you fancy a read:
https://www.rspca.org.uk/whatwedo/latest/facts
Pets, like people, just need love to thrive — a sofa to sleep on, food, a warm environment, and, in the case of dogs, regular walks.
The benefits of adopting a rescue pet are endless. You’re not just giving that pet a home, but also freeing up space for the next animal to enter the rescue centre. With rescues bursting at the seams, there’s never been a better time to take on a rescue — whether that’s a cat, a dog, or even a small furry friend.
Rescue Pets & Mental Health
The benefits to your mental health are pretty great too. Caring for a pet can help our mental wellbeing in many ways (credit to MentalHealth.org.uk for this comprehensive list):
- Increasing physical activity: Dog owners are likely to take their pets for a walk or run every day. This can be a fun way to fit exercise into your routine.
- Providing companionship: Pets can give you a sense of security and someone to share the day with. Caring for them can help you feel wanted and needed, which can be especially valuable for older people or those who live alone.
- Reducing anxiety: The companionship of a pet can help ease feelings of anxiety.
- Boosting self-confidence: Pets are great listeners, offer unconditional love, and won’t criticise you. This can help build self-confidence, especially if you feel isolated or misunderstood.
- Helping you meet new people: Dog owners often stop and chat with each other on walks, but other pets can also help you connect with people — in pet shops, training classes, or online groups, for example.
- Adding structure to your day: Feeding, exercising, and caring for a pet can help you maintain a daily routine, making you feel more grounded and focused. It can give your day purpose and a sense of achievement.
Picking up a rescue pet is my personal favourite transport service we offer. If you need our help, we’d be more than happy to be part of your special journey.
https://pets2places.co.uk/contact-us/
