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Loneliness - could getting a pet be a solution?

DaisyDuck

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

  • I've always found pets to be really therapeutic - I'd have some now if my landlord allowed it. Dogs are lovely and definitely give you a lot of emotional support. In terms of small pets, Guinea Pigs are really sweet and they make little squeaking noises (it's like their way of chatting to you). 

  • Hello oh I think that is a wonderful idea you are thinking of getting a pet. I really think it would be great for you.I am not a dog person but when I was 60 my best friend from school days got me a lovely House cat from Cats Protection, for my 60th Birthday. I had sadly just lost my dear mother a few days before my Birthday, and so to receive my little furry friend was just wonderful indeed. I had remembered my mum telling me once, when she was a little girl the family had a cat called Fluffy. Well  what a joy to find out my lovely House cat's name was also named Fluffy, and indeed she is Fluffy,by name and Fluffy, by nature.she loves to sit on my knees an get stroked and have lots of cuddles, and sleeps on my bed at night time too. If I happen to be having a bit of a down day or a Spectrum, meltdown Fluffy, jumps up beside me  on the sofa as if to say I am here Mummy, you  will be alright now an snuggles in beside me. If you do decide to get a wee pet for your self be it a dog, cat, or some other animal, I do hope it will bring you much happiness. Helena 

  • 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

  • Have you thought about borrowing a dog? There are websites like borrowmydoggy where you can link up with local dog owners and depending on how it goes and your requirements, you can take it for walks, have the dog at your house, even do whole weeks. That way you're not 100% committed to vets bills etc.

    I understand though that maybe the lack of motivation would mean cancelling. 

  • in reply to DaisyDuck

    They get better in thu winter when they want to keep warm ;)

  • in reply to photonic_electrons

    thank you :-) hope they're good at snuggles!

  • I have two cats and yes it made a difference to me. At least something wants me ;)