The presence of pets helps a lot when it comes to surviving social distancing and other restrictions that lock us into our home. During their time at home, many turn to their dog or cat for support. However, in an emergency like this, some pets may require even more care.
Hvg wrote that in a representative study, Nestlé Purina asked pet owners in Hungary about how they are putting up with the pandemic and restrictions and how they take care of their pets in this emergency. The results showed that according to respondents, one of the biggest benefits of working from home is that they can schedule their daily routine themselves (73%), and the other is that they can spend more time with their four-legged friends, which makes it easier for them to take care of their pets (43%). The third most popular answer was that pets help to relax, and their proximity has a good effect on their owner’s general well-being.
The research was also curious about how pet dogs and cats experience confinement. 59% of respondents said that their pets are particularly happy about the time they can spend together, and 42% of owners pay attention to walk their dog regularly. The majority of respondents think of their pets as an extra family member who requires constant care. There is also a significant number of people who think their pet is a ‘quasi-psychologist’ with whom they can ‘talk about’ everything.
Several studies have shown that the presence of dogs and cats – in the long run – can reduce blood pressure, stress, and the symptoms of depression, while at the same time increase work performance and creativity.
Consider some Hungarian dog breeds to become your new best friend
Komondor:
Due to their large size, they do not do well in flats, but if you have a family house with a garden, you might have just found your new cuddle-buddy. Do not let their size fool you; they are quite agile and athletic. They enjoy running around in a large fenced-off area and like to play with their housemate dogs. Komondors usually enjoy walking; however, dog parks are not the best places to do so. They can think that other, stranger dogs are threatening, and their guarding instinct can kick in, so it is best to take a walk with them in forest paths or secluded areas. Nonetheless, thanks to their instincts, they are perfect guarding dogs as well, but they require obedience training and early socialisation if you want them to be able to meet other dogs and let your friends into your garden.
Puli:
They are smaller than Komondors but very active both physically and mentally. However, you should not overdo physical exercise when the dog is young. The Puli can perform great in many canine sports. They are excellent at herding due to the breed’s past, are very loyal and obedient, and they can be really great at ‘Agility’. Puli is a very smart dog breed, so they learn very quickly and love to please their masters, but you need a firm hand to own one.
Vizsla:
They are a breed of hunting dogs, so exercising and training should be part of their routine. Because they are considered active, they might not be for everyone, but nonetheless, if you tend to them properly, you are set for a loyal companion. The breed likes to play fetch and loves walks, but sometimes they need to run off-leash. Vizslas love attention; however, if they do not get enough attention or have nothing to do, well, they might occupy themselves with something you do not want them to. If trained and socialised well, you can do almost any activity you can imagine with them.
If you want any dog breed, find an official and recognised breeder, but do not forget to visit your local shelter as there is a chance you can find a breed you might like there. Not only that, but saving an animal’s life is one of the best feelings there is, and if you do, they are sure to be grateful for you.
Experts emphasise that you should follow hygiene recommendations and the social distancing guidelines of your municipality while walking your pet. It is also important to note that people in our environment who are at high risk due to the coronavirus (e.g. the elderly) may also have pets, so if they cannot get pet food or walk their pets, consider helping them or redirect them to someone who can provide help.