Loneliness - could getting a pet be a solution?

Hey

I'm feeling kinda down and finding it hard to motivate myself at the moment. I'm also really lonely despite many attempts to build friendships (very busy NT friends with families etc). Wondering about getting a pet in the hope it will a) provide some company b) an excuse to talk to other dog walkers maybe c) force me to be productive in order to look after someone/thing else's needs. I've historically had cats as they are more independent, having dogs would be a bit of a lifestyle change as I'd need to ensure I don't work away too often.

Does anyone else have pets - any thoughts on this?

TIA

Daisy

Parents
  • Can't really give you a proper answer but I've been thinking a lot about this recently. I always had pets when I was growing up but now that I live away from my parents I don't have any. I've been wondering if a pet would help me with anxiety and loneliness.

    I would love a dog or cat but due to my living situation a small mammal would be better. I'm think getting a few rats. They are pretty intelligent and can be trained and played with much better than other rodents but they don't need to go out lots. I live in a flat so can't have big or loud pets

  • We had 5 rats. The only downside was the vets bills. They're classed as exotics so the price is higher and females are very prone to tumours. We spent about £1000 a year on vet bills! 

    My advice would be to go with a proper registered breeder (ours from the internet were sick ALL the time but breeder rats much healthier) and maybe go for males.

  • Hey, thanks for the advice. I was planning to get males. There is a breeder near me that seem to be pretty decent. Still need to find out if this is ok with my housemate and landlord though. At the moment it is just a dream in my head XD

Reply
  • Hey, thanks for the advice. I was planning to get males. There is a breeder near me that seem to be pretty decent. Still need to find out if this is ok with my housemate and landlord though. At the moment it is just a dream in my head XD

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