Corana-loneliness and cabin fever are the other pandemics
we're all dealing with. But when everyone is holed up at home, feeling
lonely and bored, there's one thing we can count on for both companionship and
entertainment: our pets. Certain cats might try a little social distancing of
their own--quite possibly because they're simply not used to their humans being
in "their" space so often--but usually they, too, come around. Once felines
realize that having a person at home around the clock might equate to more
frequent feedings, you'll see their fuzzy faces.
And dogs can be the perfect excuse to get out of the
house--following all the proper guidelines, warnings, and hand sanitations, of
course--for a brief walk around the park or the neighborhood.
Now is an excellent time to adopt a pet. We can all
use the extra company in this time of isolation, and animals are also known for
helping to relieve stress--of which we have plenty these days. Animal shelters around
the country are reporting increased pet adoption rates in the days of the
pandemic. In fact, animals are in such high demand that in New York City--still considered
the epicenter of the virus, though New Orleans has pretty much taken over that
title of late--they've nearly run out of adoptable pets. According to an article
on the Crain's New York Business website, the shelters there have nearly been
emptied of their supply of furry friends. Housebound people, seeking moral
support and suddenly finding themselves with extra time on their hands to
devote to a creature, now desperately want to adopt or foster an animal.
This is a good thing, and places like the Louisiana SPCA
can help you find your own four-legged companion locally. The LA-SPCA needs our
help, as they struggle to care for the animals in their shelters during this financially
challenging time.
Here's another, related fact: Businesses which specialize
in home delivery of pet supplies, such as Chewy.com, are thriving in the
current environment, while so many other businesses are tanking. This means
that you can get your pet supplies, whether for a newly adopted friend or one
who's been a part of the family for ages, delivered right to the safety of your
own home.
There are a lot of reasons to adopt right now: You
need a friend around the house. Animals don't care if you stay in your PJs all
day. Since you'll be on social media a lot these days, animals are great
Facebook fodder and that new puppy will make you be the envied poster of all
your pals. And for a boredom-reducing activity, try training your cat to do
something interesting--or something at all. Or try teaching your old dog a new
trick (they say it can't be done).
But before you adopt a pet, just ask yourself this: When you get busy again, when you go back to the office or the gym or the bar--whenever that much-awaited time might come along--will you still be able to care for an animal? Pets are a long-term investment, not something to do on a whim. So, make sure that if you want a pet to help you through these rough times, you pay him back with a forever home.
