New Cure for Monday Blues
I think you’ll agree that life is better with animals. It’s much harder to feel lonely when you share your home with a pet. Having your lap occupied by a cat, rabbit or even a dog who doesn’t quite fit can be a great cure for a long day of stress.
Science backs it up too. We feel happier when animals are around.
Today is Blue Monday — supposedly the saddest day of the year — so it’s going to be especially important to keep your pet close. January can be a hard month. The holidays are over, bills are due and the weather is bleak. So when you’re home today, I have a request for you: take a minute to give your pet a little extra attention and love – let’s make today a little less blue for all of us.
Because here at the OHS we know that pets are such a boost to our well-being, we’ve worked hard to bring their joy and therapeutic benefits to our partners in the community.
It’s also because of this that I was concerned about a recent story on how the rising cost of basic pet supplies is impacting pet owners in Ontario.
At the OHS, we’ve seen an increase in the number of pets surrendered because their person can no longer afford their care. It’s a heartbreaking decision and one we’ve worked hard to help people avoid through our OHS Emergency Pet Food Bank, wellness clinics and temporary boarding.
We’ve managed to keep more families together, but it’s clear the need is growing, and that more pets will be separated from their loving families if we, as a community, don’t come together to strengthen our safety net for pets.
Pets are part of a thriving community, and you can help keep more pets with their people. If you’re in a position to donate, you can help make these services possible and ensure pets and their families can stay together. If you know someone who is struggling to care for their pet, share the resources available at the OHS.
Today might be Blue Monday, but I’m feeling hopeful and grateful knowing that Ottawa is a community that cares deeply about animals.
Sharon Miko
President & CEO