The nature of being a nurse requires practicing compassion, patience, ethics, accountability, and empathy. These traits also translate well over to being a pet parent, whether you are looking at getting a dog, cat, bird, or reptile.
If you’re a nurse looking for a companion to come home to, look no further. We’ll walk through why nurses make great pet parents, why pets are the perfect companion for nurses—and what type of services can help support your pet parenting dreams during those long work hours.
Nurses Know How to Nurture
Nurture is in the name! Research shows that animals respond well to positive reinforcement, a style of training that involves rewarding behaviors you want repeated. This training style can really test your patience, compassion, and empathy, especially when you’re tired and stressed.
The traits asked of a nurse also lend nicely to the emotional needs of a pet.
Nurses have great observation skills
A nurse’s excellent observation skills can make pet parenting easier, especially regarding health concerns. During check-ups, if a pet parent brings up a concern, a vet will ask whether a behavior is normal, abnormal, or new.
Since pets can’t use words, pet parents need to observe their pets for behaviorial and physical changes to advocate for their care.
With Support, Dogs Can Adapt to 12-Hour Shifts
Long hours can make pet parenthood difficult, especially if you have 12-hour shifts. Yes, your dog shouldn’t be left alone for more than six hours, due to bladder control. But that doesn’t necessarily disqualify nurses from being a good pet parent.
The flipside of a 12-hour shift is that you may also get four consecutive days off. For older or senior dogs, this may be sufficient bonding time to help tire them out before your shifts start. In fact, many nurses report success with adopting a senior dog!
There are services, like dog walking and drop-ins, that can help get your dog’s energy out before you are home.
When Cats May Be the Better Companion
It’s no secret that dogs are fabulous companions for exercise, mood boosting, and stress relief. But let’s not overlook cats!
Cats, while still social, are more likely to be comfortable alone for longer periods of time. When left with water, an automatic feeder, and two litter boxes, adult cats can be left alone for up to 8 to 12 hours. Cats also don’t need to leave the house to fulfill their enrichment needs.
We still recommend nurses reserve a drop-in sitter to play with your cat during their shifts. Allowing your cat to build a bond with someone else will help them transition if you have any schedule changes, extra shifts, or travel days.
Pets Can Help with Burnout
Despite the challenges of their busy schedules, many nurses still embrace the joy of pet parenthood. A loving dog or cat companion can have a hugely positive impact on a nurse’s life. One study surveying over 1,300 nurses in China found that pets helped as nurses’ social support and increased their sense of self-compassion.
It’s just easier to relax and let go when you’ve got a happy pet on your hands. After all, petting a dog is one of the best forms of stress relief there is.
Keep in mind, not all pets are stress-free
As separation anxiety becomes more prevalent in pets, keep in mind that finding the right pet for your lifestyle may take time. When talking to adoption clinics, rescues, breeders, and fosters, be transparent about your lifestyle and emotional needs to make sure you’re matched with the right pet.
Pets have unique needs and what you see from your friends’ pets may not be the situation you get. Especially if you can’t vet where you’re getting your pet from.
FAQS: Finding the Right Pet as a Nurse
As a nurse, you’ll want to consider the following questions before you embark on your journey to find a pet:
Can you afford the cost of a pet, from basic to emergency costs? The first year cost of a dog can run anywhere from $1,188 to $5,155, depending on your dog’s age and breed. A cat can cost anywhere from $755 to $3,020 the first year.
How consistent is your work schedule? If your shifts constantly change, this can be unfair on a young kitten or puppy who needs consistency at an early age for developmental success.
How much time do you have before work? The more you can fulfill your pet’s needs before you leave, the more successful they’ll be alone.
What do you want to do on your off days? If you like to spend your days off doing activities that aren’t pet-friendly, a dog may not be a good fit. The early stages of having a dog require training and socialization. Adopting a cat, on the other hand, may be a better lifestyle fit.
Is there last-minute drop-in care in your neighborhood for your pet? Emergencies sometimes happen at work. Research your area for available pet sitters ahead of time to make sure you have a closer and trusted sitter near-by.
The Bottom Line
Nurses should be able to experience the love of a dog just like the rest of us—and maybe even more so.
Fortunately, busy medical professionals can easily book loving, local dog walking and doggy day care. Yep, it’s that simple. Pet parenthood for busy medical professionals? Bring it on.
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