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YourScaleyOverlord t1_j250bcw wrote

Also anecdotal - a stray cat adopted my aging parents, 10 years after they swore they wouldn't get another pet. The difference in their happiness and mental health post-adoption is astounding.

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fadufadu t1_j25ifld wrote

I think maybe having a pet makes you have to use more of your brain compared to not having a pet because you have another life to take care of, so in terms of “if you don’t use it, you lose it”, becomes kind of relevant.

Edit: fixed grammar

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Thalkarsh t1_j26bn84 wrote

I'm also thinking about dogs forcing people out for walks, and exercise is great for arterial health in the brain!

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lukelinux t1_j26ati7 wrote

Similar situation with an aging relative of mine. It was definitely noticeable

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