Bite-Sized Self-Care Challenge Day 18
Pet Cuddles: day 18 of the QUALITY BOSS 30-day self-care challenge.
Welcome to day 18 of the self-care challenge! You can catch up here if needed.
Today’s Bite-Sized Self-Care:
I’ve had at least one dog for most of my life. I grew up around animals and living in the country without any other kids nearby, my dog was my best friend. She followed me everywhere and slept in my bed. I was hooked on dogs for life!
There’s a reason that dogs are used in therapy and as emotional support animals. Dogs (and other pets) as companions offer many mental and physical health benefits.1 Interacting with pets can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and increase feelings of happiness and companionship.
Currently, I have two dogs and a cat. My cat, Dexter, is a bit anti-social, but he’s a cuddle bug when he thinks no one (particularly my dog Roxy) is looking. And Indy and Roxy are nearby pretty much at all times when I’m at home. Whenever I’m feeling low, I know they are around for a quick cuddle.
Indy and I have a little morning routine where he cuddles with me and then gets belly rubs. This is such a great way to start every day on a positive note.
Today’s Challenge:
Find a dog (or cat, or bunny, iguana, or whatever) and snuggle up for a quick cuddle sesh.
If you don’t have any pets, borrow one from a neighbor, pet one at the park (please be careful and respectful when approaching an animal you don’t know), or just enjoy some cute photos/videos online.
Cuddles,
Brie