Pet Transport and Pet Boarding Specialists
Moving to another country can be very unsettling for kids, who have to say goodbye to their friends, change schools, get used to a different way of life, and even learn a new language. It’s then that the family dog, cat, parrot or guinea pig really comes into their own. From providing a sense of continuity, showering them with unconditional love, and boosting their confidence, pets make a new place feel like home where they can relax, feel valued and in control again. Added to this are the healthy daily routines of feeding, watering, exercising, and grooming – daily responsibilities that provide distractions from negative thoughts and encourage mindfulness through shared experiences and playtime.
Late last year, South African-born golfing legend Ernie Els, father to a son with autism, went into partnership with HABRI (Human Animal Bond Research Institute). The purpose? To explore the ways animals can benefit children with autism. Research by HABRI shows that pets can have a profound effect on children with autism, including increased social interaction, improved social skills and behaviours, and significantly improved family harmony.
The positive effects of pet ownership aren’t only anecdotal – they can be measured in currency, too. According to HABRI, pet ownership saves Americans an estimated $22,7 billion in annual health care costs. That’s because interactions with dogs, cats and other household animals lower stress levels and obesity, reduce medications commonly used to treat anxiety and depression, prevent infections, and improve mental health.
Domestic animals are also stars in trauma and PTSD programmes, offering therapy, helping regulate emotions, intervening during panic attacks and fostering a sense of safety – just watch series like ‘K9s For Warriors’ to see how powerful human / pet relationships can be.
As digitally connected and omnipresent as the world is today, tech and social media can’t replace the need for real companionship. Lonely people, stressed people, anxious people, and just people in general find great comfort in the presence of their pets. Whether they have paws, feathers, or scales, pets have a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being.
Even the simple act of patting a dog or cat, or watching fish in a tank, can increase oxytocin (the “bonding hormone”) while reducing cortisol (the “stress hormone”), helping to lower stress levels. Research by the American Heart Association suggests that pet ownership, especially of dogs, is associated with lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both indicators of reduced stress and improved heart health.
Dog owners (and cat owners, too) are far more likely to meet other people during walks or at dog parks, creating a sense of community and connection. This is supported by the findings of the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
From reducing stress and easing loneliness to supporting health and trauma recovery, pets are more than just companions; they’re healers, motivators, and silent therapists. Their presence enhances quality of life in both measurable and immeasurable ways, which is why we encourage pet owners to consider taking their cats, dogs, and other pets with them when emigrating. (PS: pets generally travel very well!)
Talk to one of our friendly Keringa-Petwings travel agents about how we can assist you in transporting your pets 🐾
Feel free to contact our knowledgeable and friendly Petwings pet travel agents if you have other questions – we are a phone call, video call, or email away:
