8. Reduce loneliness
In addition to increasing self-esteem, pets can also reduce the feeling of loneliness that we feel. A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that people who had dogs felt their social needs covered as well as their friends. Research subjects reported that their dogs provided a strong sense of belonging and a meaningful existence. This relationship is not exclusive, that is, people not only resort to their pets instead of having friends, but enjoy the company of their pets, in addition to the company of their friends.
