Social distancing taking its toll? Consider getting a pet
One of the advantages of living in a gated community or sectional title complex, is the close proximity of neighbours, which lends itself to a sense of community and belonging.
With the extended period of lockdown upon us, however, many people – especially those living alone – are feeling the effects of enforced isolation, which is so counter to the profound human need for connection.
“Online communication platforms such as Zoom, Skype and others have filled the gap to some extent, but they can never replace actually seeing our friends, getting together in groups, or being able to hug each other,” says Omar Kinnear, founder of ResidentPortal, a web-based communication platform for community schemes.
“And research shows that over long periods of time, social isolation can increase the risk of a variety of health problems, including heart disease, depression, dementia, and even death.”
Health benefits of pets
However, there is also an abundant amount of research that shows that along with the feel-good hormones that are released when touching, cuddling and playing with pets, they offer a variety of health benefits. “For many people during this pandemic, pets are playing an important role in helping people to cope – an instinct supported by science,” he notes.
Some studies have found that people who have a pet have healthier hearts, stay home sick less often, make fewer visits to the doctor, get more exercise, and are less depressed. Pets may also have a significant impact on allergies, asthma, social support, and social interactions with other people. Some research shows that just stroking an animal reduces a person’s blood pressure and heart rate.
The Centres for Disease Control suggests five ways people can turn to their pets, whatever the species, to help them during the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Talk to the hound (or hare, hamster or hermit crab).Many pets are able to pick up on your emotions and can sense stress or sadness. They are great listeners — no unwelcome advice is given — and sometimes, just saying things aloud can offer relief or help you work through troubling thoughts.
- Look to them for comedy relief. Pets are funny, often without any effort at all. Whether chasing their tail (or each other if there are two or more in your home), hiding their toys, falling off their exercise wheel or swimming in circles, pets are often good for at least a chuckle, and laughter is an excellent way to relieve stress.
- Take Fido, Fluffy or Feathers for a walk.Whether on a leash, in a stroller or on your shoulder, some pets are more than happy to accompany you on a walk, which is currently an excellent way to get much-needed exercise, breathe some fresh air and greet your neighbours from afar.
- Settle in for a snuggle. While we may not be able to touch other humans outside our homes during social isolation, our pets are safe for a cuddle if you’re healthy. Hugging your pet feels great, reduces depression and releases feel-good hormones. It can also help you relax, ease tension and even relieve physical pain.
- Share the sweetness. When the news and social media seem to be filled with nothing more than sobering updates about COVID-19, a photo of your four-legged — or otherwise feathered, finned, scaled or furry — friend can bring joy to your loved ones and acquaintances. Whether you share them via text, email, video chat or on your social media platform, there’s nothing like a funny pet picture or video to create a connection with others and bring a smile to their faces.
“While the world waits for the much hoped-for day when we can safely interact with each other again, it’s good to know that our pets can fulfil at least some of the physical connection we so desperately need at this time,” Kinnear concludes.
ABOUT ResidentPortal
ResidentPortal is developed and managed by Sandton-based software consulting and development company, Business Xponent Solutions (BXS). The estate communication platform is one of the products emerging from 20 years of experience in the software industry of its founder, Omar Kinnear. One of the original developers of the SARS eFiling platform, Kinnear brings to ResidentPortal a wealth of knowledge of system performance and security.
Since 2016, around 100 complexes are using the Free Plan of ResidentPortal, and over 1000 residents, mostly in and around Gauteng, are benefiting from the way the full-featured Standard and Pro packages are simplifying their lives in their estates and complexes.
For more information, contact: Omar Kinnear, 078 798 3378
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