The award-winning voice of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Chant
The award-winning voice of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Chant
The award-winning voice of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Chant
Categories:

The power of pets

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
October 6, 2023
Mackenzie Blanco
The role of pets in an owner’s life creates joyous and unforgettable moments. The needs and wants of dogs create a lifetime of exciting memories as they grow and mature into the adored furry friends in family households. Especially through tough times, dogs provide comfort and relief at the end of the day. “Pets are always there to make you happy. When you’ve had a bad day, someone happily greets you at the door,” magnet sophomore Justina Stewart said.

From reptiles to dogs, pets need a high level of attention as they age also, dogs require proper training and a schedule that meets their individual needs. Within the hours spent with furry pets, humans create strong bonds that remain forever. The lack of interaction with one’s pet can lead to an increase in loneliness while yearning for their pet and for children, dogs serve as energy consumers and cuddle buddies after a long day. When stressed, dogs also allow people to feel a sense of calmness. The presence of pets provides support for kids in times of stress and embraces companionship which stands as important in an owner’s life. 

 “Adopting a pet was something I desired because it was something I knew I’d enjoy and gain a family member from. My dogs basically grew up with me and they were comforting to have. A reason I think people may not have a pet is because they could be allergic or could be unable to afford it,” magnet sophomore Jutina Stewart said. 

In the eyes of parents, dogs arise as a source of comfort and support for their kids. Dogs allow kids to express their true selves knowing they will not experience judgment. They provide kids with reassurance and emotional support when they feel upset, which leads to future conversations with kids and their parents about their emotions. A study made by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), examined kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) while playing with guinea pigs in a classroom. The study showed that the kids’ anxiety levels dropped after 10 minutes of play. Researchers discovered that the animals offered unconditional acceptance which created a calm and comforting space for the kids.

“As children care for, romp, or chill on the sofa, they emotionally attach to their pets and develop an understanding of themselves and the needs of others. They realize that their feelings can be similar and different from others around them. Pets help children develop a vital aspect of empathy: understanding others’ feelings and interpreting communication. With empathy, they can comprehend behaviors and emotions, interacting accordingly,” Heartmanity founder Jennifer Williams said. 

While the love for adopting a pet lasts a lifetime, the maintenance of a pet can seem fairly high. Pets rely entirely on their owner, which means decisions must be made in the best interest of the pets’ needs. For instance, humans need to walk their dogs multiple times a day to keep them active and properly groom them depending on their coats. Without providing a pet with the attention he or she needs, the pet could suffer and live a life they do not deserve. Pets need the proper care to live a healthy, active life with their owner which requires financial obligations and sacrifices. In any household, pets can attract illnesses like humans so whether an owner takes great care of their pet, vet bills and additional attention fall upon the owner to provide. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) believes pet ownership requires preparedness in an owner’s life while under any circumstance such as a medical emergency so that the pet achieves the proper care needed. This includes making arrangements in case the owner can no longer provide the care the pet needs. AVMA describes adoption as committing to a lifelong relationship with the pet and realizing that adopting a pet requires an investment of time and money. 

Nonetheless, pets would not live in happy homes without the dedication owners put into taking care of their pets. Owners gain a new companion when adopting a pet, which creates a strong connection with not only their pet but with future friendships. A study made by Harvard Medical School showed that humans gain new friendships through pet-related interactions. With the adoption of a dog, adventures take place that create life-long memories in the eyes of the owner. The emotional roller coaster that comes with adopting a pet serves a greater purpose to meet the goal of a higher number of pets out of shelters and into loving homes. 

The role of companionship embraces service and therapy dogs to educate and serve children around the world with animal-assisted intervention programs (AAI). This includes pet programs such as the Canine for Kids program at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA). CHOA’s Canine for Kids program provides support for social, emotional and physical treatment for their patients. The need for pets in hospitals allows children and families to feel a sense of peace when heading into major procedures and doctor appointments. 

 
View Story Comments
Print this Story
Tags:
More to Discover
More in Opinions
Hawaiian pizza serves as a delicious twist on a classic American dish; however, several people remain heavily divided on whether the fruit should earn a permanent spot as an acceptable pizza topping. Debates surrounding the topic cause pizza lovers to argue intensely over the controversial add-on. Regardless of its divisiveness, pineapple on pizza proves extremely popular, as thousands of pizza places serve it as a topping option.
Pineapple on pizza: A controversial delight
In the 2000s, Victoria’s Secret (VS) products became top-shelf items, but since scandals and controversy regarding the brand bloomed in 2017, their reputation depleted with each passing year. Due to their now tarnished name, VS fell into bankruptcy, which resulted in a cheap and less detailed fashion show in 2024. Viewers who expected a diverse selection of models on the runway now hope for the permanent cancellation of the fashion shows.
The return of the angels: 2024 Victoria's Secret show
People should prefer Dr. Pepper over Root Beer due to Dr. Pepper’s unique combination of 23 flavors. Dr. Pepper serves as the perfect soda for any occasion. In contrast, root beer remains a bland and unsatisfying drink, showing that Dr. Pepper should hold the title of number one soda in the U.S.
Battle for number one: Dr. Pepper vs root beer
Within the universal language of soccer, debates continue over which player can hold the mantle of number one. While dozens of players arise in these debates, Argentina’s Lionel Messi and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo remain in contention as the two greatest soccer players still in the game. Both players hold unbreakable records that push them toward the title of the one above all others.
Above all else: The world’s game and the most distinguished player of all time
The rivalry between Coca-Cola and Pepsi has played out over decades, but Coca-Cola consistently claims the top spot between the two drinks —not just in sales, but as a global icon. Coca-Cola’s marketing campaigns and deep ties to American identity affirm its status as a symbol of joy and unity. While Pepsi remains a strong competitor, Coca-Cola’s emotional connection with consumers allows it to maintain its cultural dominance.
Coke vs Pepsi: The soft drink showdown
As students consider their future education and careers, a certain sense of urgency pushes them to choose a path and stick to it. While they may not still hope for a future as a fireman or astronaut — careers popular with young children — students' plans remain subject to change, a fate which high-achieving teens may feel threatened by. As students continue to consider, plan or even attend colleges, understanding that youth remains a time for exploration rather than box-checking can allow them to build a future which contents them.
Into the unknown: Why students do not need to know their future careers
More in Showcase
A month into the E. coli breakout, McDonald’s continues to face the fallout that has harmed and killed over 100 customers. The company strives to terminate the cause swiftly and carefully to bring safe foods back on the menu. Even though the incident caused extreme consequences to their customers, a majority of people seem to ignore the breakout and continue to eat there.
Not once but twice: McDonald’s run-in with E. coli
Following former President and current President-elect Donald Trump’s win against the Democratic party’s candidate Vice President Kamala Harris, a group of left-leaning women have considered joining forces against the patriarchy with the 4B movement. The feminist movement, which originated in Korea, calls for women to avoid traditional gender roles with four pillars: bihon, bichulsan, biyeonae and bisekseu. Though the movement began before the 2020 pandemic, it has remained relatively unknown until its entry into Western media.
The 4B movement’s fresh feminist force
Every student-athlete awaits that coveted day when they declare, in front of their loved ones and coaches, where they plan to pursue sports after high school. For six of NC’s premiere players, November 13 marked that special day. Across varsity volleyball and lacrosse, love and appreciation for the successful seniors echoed through NC’s Arena and set the stage for future commitments.
The six who signed: NC athletes commit to collegiate sports
The notorious Victorian muffin man–and modern NC teachers Cogbill, Dillard and Tener– and despite the separation of time and technology, all demonstrate the role food plays in connecting populations and spreading warmth. Originating from the 19th century, this iconic figure emerged as a street vendor who fed the hungry industrial workers of his age. Today, the figure lives on in NC hallways, supporting student activities such as wrestling and robotics.
Muffin men through the ages: The sweet evolution of community spirit
What started as an agricultural process eventually evolved into an exciting fall activity for families and friends to enjoy. Pumpkins can meet specific entertainment needs and involve different cultural practices. These applications do not always include eating or decoration, but rather a variety of applications, each with its unique purpose.
The gourd and its gourd-geous uses
For NC wrestlers, practice remains the foundation of success that leads teams to higher levels of competition. The coaches of the NC wrestling team watch closely to tend to the students’ skills, helping the athletes improve. The athletes learn to step on the mat and treat anyone across from them as a potential opponent to prepare for the intense tournaments. When athletes hone their skills during their practice and take all the advice coaches direct, they can become champions.
Wrestling practice: The foundation to championship success
About the Contributor
Mackenzie Blanco
Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
Mackenzie Blanco, a magnet junior, continues her time on The Chant as a copy editor for the 2024-2025 school year. Ever since she could remember, Blanco has admired utilizing her writing skills to release her creative thoughts and steadfast opinions. As her second year on The Chant unfolds, Blanco continues to explore her writing style, the realm of editing and ultimately build up her view of the journalism field, which she aspires to pursue in college. Blanco envisions her junior year to be full of new opportunities, friendships and exceptional advancements for The Chant, while also maintaining a proud stance of her other commitments. Outside of the Pub Office, Blanco can be found spinning her equipment as a member of NC’s Color Guard, on walks with her dog, Chico, going on strenuous hikes, baking yummy treats or spending time at church—alongside her favorite people. She is also a co-leader of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and a member of NC’s Bible study club, Collective Hope. Blanco hopes that The Chant will continue to bring her the inspiration to make an impact on the world with her writing.  Find her on Instagram @mackenzie.blanco3.