Emotional Support Guinea Pig

So I happen to have guinea pigs... Mr. T (Mr. Therapist, not the the wrestler) and Freud. 🙃

How did I become a Guinea Pig mom? I was studying, took a break, and saw this helpless guinea pig on vraag & aanbod who needed a home.

I couldn't just leave the poor thing, could I? 🤷‍♀️

An hour later, Mr. T was home and soon enough Freud also entered our family.

What I love the most about guinea pigs is how cuddly they can be. Mr. T came into my life when I was having a very difficult time with anxiety and feelings of overwhelm. I quickly realized just how calming holding him can be for me. Holding him on my chest feels like I suddenly have an extra bar on my coping meter.

Once I discovered this lifehack, I HAD to go buy a bag to take Mr. T with me when running errands (which can give me major anxiety). I also try to have regular cuddle time with him, especially when feeling stressed.

In fact, there are several benefits of emotional support pets that have been scientifically proven, including:

1. Reduced stress and anxiety: Studies have shown that interacting with a pet can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and reduce anxiety symptoms. This effect has been observed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and workplaces.

2. Improved mood: Pet owners often report feeling happier and more content when they have a pet to care for. This effect has been linked to increased levels of the feel-good hormone oxytocin, which is released when we bond with animals.

3. Lowered blood pressure and heart rate: Petting a dog or cat has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, which can have long-term health benefits for people with hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions.

4. Increased social support: Having a pet can provide a sense of companionship and social support, which can be especially beneficial for people who live alone or have limited social networks.

5. Reduced loneliness and depression: Studies have shown that pet owners are less likely to experience feelings of loneliness and depression, and may even have a lower risk of developing these conditions over time.

Overall, emotional support pets can have a significant positive impact on mental and physical health, and may be especially beneficial for people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, or other emotional challenges.

I am not sure about the regulations in Aruba on having an official emotional support animal but I am very interested in finding this out.

So...that is the story about how I got an unofficial emotional support guinea pig.