High school is one of the most important times of a student’s life—consequently, it becomes one of the most stressful times as well. The solution to managing stress and staying motivated is one that is often overlooked by many—get a pet! Even if it is a graceful parrot or a light-hearted puppy, having a pet can provide a lot of benefits for high schoolers.
Generally, a common experience of a high schooler is being bombarded with tests, quizzes, and homework on top of all the extracurricular activities they do. Over time, this can build up a ton of stress. Stress comes from the specific stress hormone called cortisol. Studies by NewsInHealth, a government newsletter, shows that simply caring for a pet, whether it be walking a dog or feeding a fish, can counteract higher cortisol levels. In other words, taking care of a pet can ameliorate many of the day-to-day grievances brought on by high school. Many high school students deal with anxiety and some deal with depression. Surveys from HABRI.org show that 74% of pet owners are now depression-free after getting a pet. The responsibility of caring for a pet can make students, as well as owners in general, feel valued. On top of that, owning a pet can also build a sense of responsibility. Since a pet needs constant care, owning a pet trains important skills like time management and commitment within a student. These skills, developed by a student taking care of their pet, aid technical success in education. Developing these skills are important after education as well. Owning a pet will set students up for success.
However, many students have concerns about owning a pet. Some may argue that caring for a pet takes up valuable time; time that could be spent studying. To an extent, that is true; some pets are arduous to look after. However, choosing a lower-maintenance pet, such as a hamster or fish, can provide similar benefits and not take up a lot of time as well. While fish won’t offer the same level of companionship as a furry friend, having a fish can create a very relaxing and happy environment. A pet can really change a high schooler’s life. If a student is really committed, bringing a pet into their home can be one of the best decisions they make in their high school years.
