Two Dogs Or Cats Are Better Than One

 

Dogs are pack animals. Cats not so much but they get lonely and need companionship too. That is why it is better to have two dogs or cats instead of only one. It is actually easier and less time and work to have two rather than only one dog or cat. When you only have one, than you are it for them. They are counting on you solely for their needs being met including any attention or affection they receive. If you are a busy person you may not have the time your only cat or dog needs to be healthy and happy. That's why two dogs or cats are better than one because they keep each other company.

Dogs get lonely when they are all alone. They are social creatures who instinctively survive and thrive in a pack or family unit. In fact, in the wild when a dog is banished from its pack it is usually because it is sick, old or has been deliberately rejected by the leader because it is a threat to the well-being of the entire pack. Dogs need to be with a pack. They feel safe and secure in a pack. That is how they are biologically hard-wired so to speak. Dogs are happier, healthier and safer when they are part of a pack or family.

Even though cats are more independent than dogs, they too need companionship to thrive. Believe it or not cats get lonely to. They are more likely to be friendlier and less likely to mark or destroy things if they have a playmate to share their long days with. In fact, in some cities local animal shelters will only allow you to adopt a cat if you get two. They insist on it or they don't let you adopt a cat.

It is very sad for me when I am walking my dogs in a neighborhood and see a dog all alone in its back yard especially when I know it is always in the back yard and never allowed inside. I assure you those dogs are very sad pups. Why do I make that assumption? Because I know dogs and they are social beings who want and need to be part of the pack. What message is it receiving from its people when it is kept separate from its pack, never allowed to enjoy the time, companionship or a meal with its pack? It is being shown that it is the lowest pack member and unworthy of being included in the pack. That is a sad and lonely dog that probably has self-esteem issues as a result.

Cats are certainly more independent and less needy than dogs but they also get lonely and need love, affectionate and companionship as well. Cats that are lonely can get into mischief, marking their area out of spite or tearing up things to get your attention. Cats will show you when they aren't happy. They have a way of getting their needs met whether it is in a positive or negative manner.

We get pets to share our lives with. If you are a busy person and you know your pet may spend many hours a day alone, than please consider getting it a companion to share its time with. That way you can live your busy, productive life free of guilt, knowing you have saved two lives instead of just one and your pets get to live a happy, healthy life with a pal while you aren't able to be with them. Let's face it for most dogs and cats, two dogs or cats are definitely better than just one.