Pets and Happiness: Four Ways Pets Express Joy

Pets and happiness go hand in hand. And if you are reading this blog, you can probably find a smiling dog or a purring cat within reach, and there is no doubt it brings a smile to your face. Here at Trupanion HQ, with more than 300 pets gracing us with their presence on any given day, pets and happiness abound, from every meeting room, office cubicle, and break space. Our furry friends, young and old alike, truly are an inspiration to our lives and exude overall happiness that one could only hope to attain. We sat down with our Trupanion pet program team to dive deeper into pets and happiness and what it all really means.

Pets and happiness: four ways pets express their happiness for us every day

1. Our pets greet us at the door

When we come home from a long day, our pets are the first to greet us at the door. Certainly, the sheer joy and happiness they exude from the moment we open that door, puts a smile on our face and makes us feel happy in response. Essentially, seeing their happiness automatically makes us happy.

Also, did you know your pets have a pose that is saying hello to you?

Trupanion’s on-site animal behaviorist, Camille Barrios- UW.A.A.B.  weighs in on the way pets say hello.

“Our pets express a hello greeting when they bow down and stretch their paws out. Naturally, that is their way of welcoming us home. Essentially, it’s not just a stretch, but their way of communicating a greeting.”

2. First to say good morning

Sometimes, the alarm is not the first thing to wake us in the morning. Rather, our pets are the smiling face we see when we open our eyes. Granted, it might be that they need to go outside. However, there is a chance they are just happy to see us. Often, our pets are the first ones we see in the morning, and the last ones we see before bed. Certainly, this is a clear indicator of the value of pets in our lives, and where they stand in the family dynamic. Regardless, a wet nose, wagging tail or fury nuzzle is the best way to start the day.

3. Lay at our feet in a moment of need

Our pet’s sense when we need them, and they never waiver. Somehow they know when we need their support or a hug to get us through the day. Rather, they never ask for much in return, and their love is unconditional. For instance, when our pets lay at our feet in a moment of need, they are letting us know that they are there to support us. Certainly, this unselfish act is just another way our pets express their love to us on a daily basis.

4. Joyful with their family at home

Most of all, our pets are the most content and joyful when they are surrounded by their family at home. “Dogs are very social animals. So, in general, whenever they can interact or be around others, they will be happier and more comfortable,” points out Barrios. In addition, the happiness that our pets feel is contagious, we feel so happy when they’re around, and that they’re happy. Naturally, they truly light up our day.

Pets and happiness: a joyful addition to any home

Pets and the happiness they exude is a welcome addition into any home. Certainly, the joy that our animal companions share is felt not only by our pets but by humans alike. When you decide to bring a new addition into your home, the bond of a furry friend in your life will be an experience like no other. What ways do your pets express their happiness?