Have you ever gotten home from school, thinking about all of the homework you have to do? But as soon as you walk through the door, your pet runs up to you, extremely excited to see you. It makes you feel a bit better, doesn’t it?

It has been proven that pets, especially dogs, can help reduce stress. Students, as most people know, are usually very stressed. So they like to have their furry friends around.

Freshman Maryn Weber gets stressed all the time. She has had her dog, Louie, for 10 years. When Weber gets home after tennis, she usually gets a snack and since she’s in advanced classes, she starts on her mountain of homework. She says she always has her dog with her.

“Yeah, he makes me laugh,” Weber says. 

When Weber is stressed or upset, she has an outlet.

“I usually draw, go on my phone, or play with my dog,” she said. She says that being with her dog makes her feel happier.

Weber says there are other options for those who don’t have pets.

“I would say find a hobby you enjoy doing, and then just do it when you’re stressed.” 

According to Verywell Mind and Newswise, one study showed that, when conducting a task that’s stressful, people actually experienced less stress when their pets were with them than when a supportive friend or even their spouse was present.

Just think, when you think “pet”, your mind goes to hanging out all day, relaxing, calm things. So, especially dogs, they kind of radiate relaxation. Old or young, they do the same thing, chill. (unless it’s a puppy)

Now, some people don’t have pets and that’s okay. Other ways to reduce stress include exercise, spend time with friends and family, etc.

It’s a good feeling to know that even your pet is there for you.