Think only the famous are obsessed with their pets? No way. Every year North Americans spend billions of dollars on pet food, toys and care, and there are thousands of websites devoted to these favourite critters. Many of us are gaga for our poopsie-poos – and rightly so. Research shows that pet owners are emotionally and physically healthier than those without furry or scaly roommates. But why do we choose a cat over a dog, a fish over an iguana, or nothing at all? Take our quiz to find out what your pet of choice says about your personality, and learn how your cherished pals return your kindness.
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Question of 5
When an unpleasant situation arises, your first reaction is to:
In relationships, you’re more likely to choose a partner who:
When company unexpectedly drops by, your first instinct is to:
When a new co-worker moves into the office, you:
On an average day:
You’re doggone sassy!
You’re sociable, lovable and willing to deal with other people’s crap – literally. You have a warm heart and well-developed leg muscles from frequent walks around the block. You’re also in possession of a chewed-up pair of Manolo Blahniks – a minor irritation compared to the joy your cuddly companion brings. What Rufus does for you Good news for married folk – you may be less likely to divorce if there’s a dog around, says Stanley Coren, psychology professor at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver and author of Why We Love the Dogs We Do (Free Press). After long days at the office, both partners are less likely to fight if Lassie is around to give and get affection and help reduce stress levels, explains Coren. You’re the cat’s meow!
You’re trustworthy, but not dependent; responsible, but enjoy having the freedom to drink martinis for hours on end without having to worry about anybody else’s bladder but your own. You have the upper hand in your relationships, except when it comes to your puss who wears the “boots” at all times. What Fluffy does for you Studies show that having a cat around, especially if you’re single, may alleviate depression and boost self-esteem. According to an Australian study, women have closer bonds with their feline companions than men do, and also enjoy better mental health than those without pets. (So much for the “crazy old lady and her cats” syndrome!) You’re a bird, fish or pocket pal’s best friend!
You may be a little skittish – after all, you’re always at risk of being stepped on since it’s just not hip to like small animals such as fish, hamsters, birds and bunnies – unless you’re 10 years old. But that’s where you’re one step ahead of the dog and cat lovers: you know small creatures provide the same affection and entertainment in half the square footage. What Bubbles does for you Dr. Petra Burgmann, a veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of High Park in Toronto, says that small animals such as hamsters and fish are ideal for first-time pet-owners since they’re less intimidating. And then there are the many health benefits: chatty birds stave off loneliness, petting bunnies calms frazzled nerves and watching fish swim makes you relax (a reason why doctors, dentists and other professionals capable of inflicting pain often keep aquariums in their waiting rooms). You like to walk on the wild side!
Sure, you put your cargo pants on one leg at a time, but you’re also a bit of a closet rebel because you love snakes, monkeys and other exotic animals. “By and large, exotic pet owners are open-minded and not afraid of being different,” says Dr. Petra Burgmann, a veterinarian at the Animal Hospital of High Park in Toronto. However, the personality type of the pet owner varies as much as the species do. Ferrets are bundles of energy that love rough-housing, she says. “They suit high-spirited fun-loving people who always have time to play.” Reptile owners, on the other hand, are individuals with an appreciation for things that are different and don’t expect any doting or cuddling in return, says Dr. Burgmann. What Fang does for you “The ability for an exotic pet to relieve stress, lower heart rate, and provide companionship is the same as for a dog or a cat,” says Dr. Burgmann. Plus, she adds, reptiles are ideal pets for people with allergies to fur or feathers. You’re your own best friend!
It’s true – without a pet, you may be lonelier, less physically active and prone to high blood pressure. But so what if you prefer to save your animal instincts for your man? Who could blame you for wanting a little pillow talk that doesn’t include a mouthful of fur? How being leash-free benefits you Chances are your house is a lot cleaner than your pet-obsessed friends, and you don’t sport animal fur on your clothes. Not having a pet also frees you up for travel. Worried you’re missing out? Get a few of the health benefits of owning a pet without the serious commitment by caring for the retro-companion, a Chia pet or cyber-space pal, a Tamagotchi! |
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