10 Ways Our Lives Are Better Because of Our Pets

By Kristi, Sweet Relish

Many of us have heard of or participated in “Take Your Daughter to Work” Day. But did you know there’s a “Take Your Pet to Church” Day? You bet your hamster wheel there is.

In honor of the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, which falls on October 4, many churches offer a “blessing of the pets” this month. St. Francis is the patron saint of animals and the environment, and was known for his deep love for all creatures. Whether or not you intend to take your pet for a blessing this year, all pet owners know that our four-legged (or two-legged or no-legged) friends bless us in many ways. Here are 10 ways life is better because of our pets:

1. Unconditional love – no matter what you said in that meeting or how you lost your temper on the road, pets are so glad to see us every time we walk in. Unconditional love is good for the soul.

2. No grudges- Of course our pets can learn and, in a sense, remember, but they don’t hold things against us the way people do. There’s a freedom and simplicity in their affection that we could probably all learn from.

3. Company- Whether you’re single, married, married with kids, single with roommates – we all get lonely. When a pet is around, we feel less alone, even if a fish is in a tank across the room. They are alive and they are there, and that matters.

4. Family– There’s a reason many couples get a dog before having children – it makes the unit feel like a family before a people-family gets its start.

5. They help us work together- There’s the cliché story where the kids want a dog and promise to feed and walk it, but a few weeks later the parents are doing all the work, right? No matter how it plays out, pets do require care and give us an opportunity to focus on working together.

6. They help us think of someone else – Along those lines, having something else to take care of helps us remember that the world doesn’t revolve around us. Caring for something other than ourselves helps keep us grounded.

7. They keep us active- Okay, those of you with pet turtles probably aren’t burning many calories taking them on jaunts around the block. But walkable pets are great for reminding their owners to get up and get moving.

8. They help us relate to our own kind- When you have a pet, you are automatically part of the pet-owners club. You understand people who love their pets. Whether it’s seeing a stranger buy the same kind of kitty litter at the store or petting a dog at the groomer, having a pet of our own makes us aware of other people and their animals.

9. They give us something to be proud of- People are proud of their pets. Check out hashtags like #dogsofinstagram or #ferretsofinstagram if you don’t believe me. We are proud of those we love, and we find joy in showing them off.

10. Unconditional love- Yes, this is on here twice. Yes, that’s on purpose. The animals we love remind us that we, too, are loveable. And that’s a message we can all stand to hear more often.

Ready to spoil the little creature in your life? Check out these creative, thoughtful products that express your care for the ones that are so devoted to you.

ResQthreads was born when Bailey and George adopted Charlie, a black Chow-Chow. After bringing him into their home in New York City, the couple found themselves wanting to promote pet adoptions to help others experience the joy Charlie has brought to their lives. Their line of graphic tees, totes, and bracelets is eye catching and fun, and $10 of every purchase goes towards the purchaser’s animal rescue of choice.

What’s not to love about CharlieDog and Friends? The owners of this cuddle-making company stepped out of their comfort zone to start a business that would send revenue to animal rescue operations. A toy from CharlieDog and Friends is truly a win-win. Adorable plush toys that make great gifts, saying “you are loved” to not only the recipient, but the animals benefitting behind the scenes.

People spend big bucks on products that keep their homes looking cool after, say, a baby enters the family. Why not offer the same type of thing for pets? RefinedKind Pet Products has attractive dog beds, cat trees, and even fish bowls that keep your home looking great and your pet feeling loved. Check out their zooquariums, aquatic animal-shaped bowls in great colors to blend with any décor.

When former model Kristi Hinze Clark wanted to spoil her rescued schnauzers with luxury products, she came up short. Instead of settling, she teamed up with friends Neil Hamil and Brian Long to start Legitimutt. With leashes and collars made from smooth leather and simple suede and coats designed to look like equestrian jackets, Legitimutt helps any pet (and owner!) feel, well, legit.

One thing we love about our pets is that while domesticated, they’ll always retain a bit of their wild side. And that’s good for us! But when you’re strolling down the street and Fido lurches to catch a squirrel, for example, the yank on the leash could use a little taming. Enter the Wacky Walk'r, a leash made from shock absorbing material, which protects your arm, shoulder, and back from being jerked out of place by that fun-loving puppy.

We long to protect our pets, but some may have conditions or illnesses which can make it even harder to know that they're always safe. Alarm Charms' tags make it known if your pet has an ailment, such as diabetes or cancer, so that others are aware. They provide peace of mind.

ISLAND DOG DESIGN offers Rover a sweet spot to settle his tired bones. Each bed is ultra-thick and comfortable, and premium quality, so you won't be replacing it year after year. Did we mention they're gorgeous? They blend with every decor, and act as an elegant accessory.

Soggy Doggy Doormat is great for keeping your home clean. Not only is it chic enough to blend with any decor, it also means no more muddy pawprints tracked across your floors thanks to its absorbent "noodles." Dry dog = happy homeowners.