The quarantine has been a testing time for all of us. Sitting at home, locked up all day long, can work up not just our bodies but also minds in a negative way. While you maybe feeling really lonely with not being able to catch up with your buddies or go out for gatherings, there is another group that’s feeling just like you: animals.
Animal shelters across the USA have had to shut down for safety measures and these animals have now become homeless. This is the time, however, when they need your love and, what’s more, when you need theirs. Animals who are used to being engaged in activities find it really difficult to stay in their kennels for days together. Gina Breadon, Community Outreach Coordinator, Saint Louis County Adoption Centre of Saint Louis University says that animals can be companions to humans and they shower unconditional love.
Animals are shown to have positive effect on both the physical and mental health of humans as well. They bring soothing and therapeutic effects on the human mind making it an anti-stress agent during these times of extreme stress. Petting or even simply having a pet on your lap can lower your blood pressure. It releases endorphins not just for humans but for the animals too making it a mutually beneficial exercise.
Having a permanent pet is a lot of commitment. This may not be something everyone is ready for. In such a situation, this quarantine becomes an ideal situation to enjoy a pet’s company, for a few weeks or months, without having to take up full responsibility. While Saint Louis Adoption Centre is working towards a foster program, for the last few months now – and particularly the last few weeks – they have been working towards finding foster homes for the animals.
N Malavika Mohan