Our pets are more than companions—they’re healers, motivators, mood boosters, and loyal friends who walk through life with us. This article explores the profound connection between pet and parent, and how supporting one another—physically, emotionally, and mentally—leads to a better life for both of you.
How Our Pets Help Our Mental Health
You know that comforting feeling you get just by petting your dog, cat, or ferret? That’s not just warm fuzzies—science backs it up.
Petting animals can lower your blood pressure, release oxytocin, and decrease feelings of anxiety, loneliness, and depression. Pets give us a reason to get outside, move our bodies, and even interact with other people more often. They offer companionship, routine, and a non-judgmental ear when we need it most.
For many of us, our pets give us purpose—someone to care for, to show up for, and to love deeply. And in turn, they make our lives richer, calmer, and more connected. 💚
How Our Stress Affects Our Pets
Have you ever noticed that when you’re upset, your pet instinctively tries to help?
Maybe they cuddle closer. Bring you a toy. Pull you outside for sunshine. Or maybe they start doing something mischievous to get your attention. Whatever it is, animals notice—and they respond with incredible emotional intuition.
But while their comfort can be healing for us, they often absorb our stress themselves.
Your stress can manifest in your pet as:
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Itchiness
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Vocalization
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Behavioral changes
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Digestive or organ issues
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Even chronic health conditions
This doesn't mean you shouldn't turn to your pet for comfort—but it does mean being intentional. Before you reach for that furry hug, take a few slow, deep breaths. Allow some of the tension to release.
This small pause can help protect your pet's emotional and physical well-being—while still allowing you to receive their comfort.
Ways to De-Stress Together
What’s better than self-care? Self-care with your pet.
There are so many simple ways to de-stress with your carnivore. These are most effective if you don't have your phone with you or the TV on. Just you & your pet present together. Here are a few of our favorites:
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Hold a chew: Chewing releases calming hormones in carnivores—and watching them enjoy a good chew is surprisingly grounding for us too.
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Give a gentle massage: Use slow, rhythmic movements and breathe deeply as you go.
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Spend time outside together: Especially at dawn or dusk for a healthy circadian rhythm boost.
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Watch your pet sleep (or nap together!): The soothing rhythm of their breathing can calm yours too.
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Play: Let loose and be silly. Throw a toy, chase each other, giggle and bark together.
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Meditate with your pet: Yes, really! Sit quietly, focus on your breath or think of things you’re grateful for about your pet. They’ll likely curl up next to you, enjoying the calm.
Building these habits can reduce stress for both of you—and deepen your bond in ways that last a lifetime. Try to do one of these practices a few times a week or more often if you can.
Specific Ways to De-Stress Your Carnivore
Sometimes, our pets need their own stress support. Here’s how to help them unwind:
🐾 Sniffing
Dogs, cats, and ferrets all enjoy a good sniff session. Try:
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Snuffle mats or puzzle toys
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Tossing treats around the room for them to find
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Hiding scent-safe outdoor items (leaves, pinecones, sticks) indoors for exploration
🦴 Chewing
A satisfying chew releases happy hormones. Choose species-appropriate chews sized right for your carnivore.
👅 Licking
Lick mats can be incredibly calming, especially for anxious pets.
🧠 Recognizing Stress Signals
Pets often show stress before they make noise. Look for:
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Yawning
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Lip licking
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Paw lifts
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Turning away
These are called calming signals—and they’re a goldmine of insight. Even better? You can use calming signals yourself to help soothe your pet. Try yawning and breathing slowly next time you're at the vet or in a stressful situation together. You'll be amazed how they respond.
Raw Feeding vs. High Carb Diets & Mental Health
We couldn’t leave diet out of this conversation—because what your pet eats directly impacts their mental and emotional health.
High-carb diets (think kibble with grains, legumes, or potatoes) often cause blood sugar spikes and crashes. Just like in humans, these fluctuations can lead to:
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Mood swings
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Hyperactivity
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Anxiety
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Lethargy
Raw feeding, on the other hand, is naturally low in carbs and high in bioavailable nutrients. It creates:
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Stable blood sugar
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Even energy
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Balanced mood
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Improved behavior
A raw diet doesn’t just fuel the body—it nourishes the mind.
Routines, Rituals & Security for Your Pet
You may hear trainers talk about strict schedules—but we believe rituals and routines offer more flexibility and security.
Routines and rituals are anchored around meaningful moments in your pet’s day—like mealtime, bedtime, playtime, or when you leave/come home. It’s not about the exact time on the clock. It’s about the process that helps your pet feel safe, connected, and calm.
Instead of “food at 6pm sharp,” try a meal-time ritual like placing a towel down where your pet eats before putting their bowl down. This visual cue helps them know, “Yes! It’s time to eat!”—even if you’re in a new environment.
Other ideas:
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Morning or evening sniffari in the yard
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Evening grooming or massage
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Play-before-meal routines for cats (to mimic the hunt)
The goal is to help your pet know what to expect—which builds confidence, comfort, and calm even in the face of big life changes like travel, moving, or being cared for by someone new.
Never Stop Learning (for Them and for You)
Here’s your final reminder: Keep learning.
Every day you deepen your knowledge, you become a better advocate for your pet’s health—mental and physical. And every time your pet is thriving, you benefit too.
There’s a wealth of knowledge out there from holistic veterinarians, raw feeding experts, behaviorists, and natural wellness educators. You’ll find:
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Podcasts
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Books
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Online courses
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Social media accounts filled with free, actionable advice
Need a starting point? Check out the accounts we follow—many of them offer rich insights through a variety of platforms. And of course, our own Raw Feeding Mini Course is a fantastic place to begin or refresh your journey into species-appropriate nutrition and whole-body wellness.
Because your pet needs a healthy pet parent.
And pet parents need healthy pets. 💚
Wrapping It All Up
This week, we looked at the powerful, reciprocal relationship between pets and humans.
They help us stay grounded.
We help them stay balanced.
And together, we create a life filled with joy, health, connection, and resilience.
Thanks for reading—and thanks for showing up for your carnivore every single day.