Reading can be a transformative experience, taking us to incredible worlds, discovering unique perspectives, learning new information and skills, and much, much more.Interestingly, a good page-turner can also have a positive effect on our pets.
While there isn’t a great deal of evidence that tells us exactly how reading impacts our pet pals, real-life examples highlight that reading presents positive outcomes for people and our four-legged friends.
Encourages Calm: Our fur friends can become accustomed to our voices as we spend more time together. Our pets may hang off our every word, but in some instances, they seem to be able to recognise our pitch and tone as well. When being read to by a familiar voice, our pet pals can feel a sense of calm and relaxation, sometimes even falling asleep to our unending, rhythmic reading.
Social Aspects: Along with listening to our voice as we read, our pets are learning how to manage an environment with stillness which could be a contrast to more active times throughout the day. This change of pace can be a good learning opportunity for our pets to develop skills in a variety of social situations with people and pets.
Strengthening Bonds: Who doesn’t love a bit of extra attention? Our pets certainly do, and reading can be a form of giving them attention and developing an emotional connection. More time spent together only strengthens your people and pup bond in the moment and for the future.
Confidence: The benefits of reading go both ways for people and pets. There is evidence that children’s reading skills are enhanced when they read to dogs and their confidence grows. For our canine companions, reading gives them the assurance of positive connections with people.
Many animal-loving pet sitters often read to the pet pals they care for during a house and pet sit. Find your ideal house and pet sitter online to provide personalised care and attention for your fur kids while you’re away.