This is a tough time for many people for many reasons. And the news is full of stories, both large and small, that can make you feel scared and sad.
It’s important to acknowledge these news stories and keep yourself informed of what’s happening in the world and your community. But it’s also important to keep your spirits up, both for your mental state and your immunity. After all, stress can impact your health and ability to fight off illness.
We don’t know about you, but happy tales about pets and the people who love them are always a surefire way to make us feel better about the world. So, without further ado, here are a few stories that we hope make you smile.
1. Neighborly Love
We don’t know the full story here and can’t find the source, but our hearts soared when we saw this photo someone captured of a beautiful moment in Italy, a country that has been hit harder than most by this virus. Apparently this man learned that his neighbor was in the hospital, so he found a creative way to feed their dog until its owner comes home.
It’s a great reminder that we can and should find ways to help our neighbors during this difficult time. There are lots of things you can do while still maintaining the social distance you need to stay safe.
2. Pet Fosters and Adoptions Are Up
At any given time in the US, pet shelters are overflowing with dogs and cats who need either temporary or forever homes. But according to USA Today, some shelters are seeing a 70% increase from the same period last year in fosters and a 100% increase in adoptions. And those who may not be able to take in a new pet are donating money and supplies to pet shelters in their community.
As we’ve mentioned on social media, now is a wonderful time to adopt a new pet since you’ll be spending almost all of your time at home for a while. You can use this time to help acclimate a new pet to your home and family. And, in return, you can be sure that that pet will give you love, affection, and companionship now and for many years to come.
If you’re interested in fostering or adopting a pet during this time, please reach out to your local shelters to find out what their current, safe process looks like and how you can get started.
3. Humane Society Gives Back
In addition to worries about their health, many people are also facing serious financial challenges. The San Diego Humane Society has stepped up to offer 70,000 pounds of free pet food and supplies to pet owners in the area who can’t afford to buy pet food right now.
If you or someone you know is dealing with this challenge, please search for organizations in your area who may also be offering free pet food to those who have lost employment during the pandemic.
4. Pets in Meetings
With many more people working from home and doing video business calls, pets are making funny and unexpected appearances in serious meetings. While your first reaction might be to feel embarrassed or try to shoo your pet away, remember that almost everyone enjoys looking at cute animals. So instead, consider leaning into it and introducing your pets to your colleagues.
In a now-viral Tweet, one man shared his experience saying, “DO NOT APOLOGISE WHEN YOUR PETS JUMP INTO THE FRAME ON ZOOM CALLS. Was just in a conference with the CEOs of a major US org and Muffin jumped on my lap and the whole conversation stopped, IS THAT A CAT, SHOW ME THE CAT! Everyone needs cats in these trying times.” We agree.
These are just a few of many heart-warming stories that are coming out about how people are stepping up to help other humans in animals during the toughest times. So if you ever begin to feel overwhelmed by the scary stuff, do as Mr. Rogers suggested and look for the helpers.
