When’s the last time you stopped and cuddled your pet? They’ve been giving you puppy dog eyes all week, to which you’ve repeatedly responded: “Later.” We’re here to let you know that the best time to paws and take a break is now – not just for your furry friend’s well-being, but for your own as well.

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Science can back us up on this: hugging your pet on a regular basis can give you a much-needed mental health boost!The rationale is simple: physical contact helps trigger the release of oxytocin.

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This very same hormone is associated with things like childbirth, the bond between a mother and her newborn child, sexual arousal, and building trust and emotional attachment.Also known as the “happy hormone,” oxytocin – and in turn, petting or cuddling with your cat or dog – comes with all sorts of mood-boosting effects that leave us feeling warm and fuzzy.

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Yup – as fluffy as it sounds, the facts are here to prove it: sometimes all you need is a hug! So the next time your pet starts giving you The Look? Allow yourself to take a break, give them a cuddle, and enjoy all the furr-apeutic benefits it can bring.

Don’t have a pet? You’ve just found the perfect excuse to adopt one. And if not? There are many other ways to naturally boost your oxytocin levels, such as:

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• Taking a few minutes to meditate
• Human touch
• Doing yoga
• Savouring a delicious (and nutritious!) meal
• Playing or listening to music
• Having a cup of coffee
• Getting some sun
• Engaging in positive social interactions
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Consider this your friendly reminder to treat yourself to a happy hormone boost, maybe in the form of a positive social interaction – aka working with us?

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*Hint hint!* Have a lovely end to your week!