How can our furry, four-legged family members stay so positive and upbeat during tough times like these?

How can our furry, four-legged family members stay so positive and upbeat during tough times like these?

The answer is simple: they have you. And it’s their big personalities (or attitudes) and silly quarks that help us through the rough times and bring a smile to our face.

Studies have shown that petting, cuddling and having a loving animal in your life can help reduce stress and anxiety. It's tough being in lockdown, but having that animal companion, offering their unconditional love every day can make the world of difference to our daily lives. Plus, pet owners love to share the amusing antics their pet has gotten into... and we’ll get to that in a second.

It’s been a year of Zoom calls and face times and everyone has experienced the cat video bomber or the pup who demands to be part of the discussion. Us pet owners have had to introduce our furry companions more than once, and more often than not they have brought a smile to the faces of everyone in the meeting. After digitally meeting some of these beautiful animals we thought it would be fun to have terra20 team members introduce their pets to you and how they are helping us through the pandemic.  

Buddy

I have the pleasure of seeing Buddy’s adorable mischievous face every week during our bi-weekly team meetings. Jess, terra20’s inventory analyst, is the owner of this maltipoo, and always has a story to share. During the past year, Buddy has thoroughly enjoyed having Jess at home so he can bring her his toys and play at her feet and get extra cuddles. But his favourite activities include yoga, walks, and catching up on Schitt’s Creek. Can’t blame him for that, that show is hilarious. He also loves to dance. His favourite artist? That would be Kygo.

Hades

Hades, the long-haired cat is the meow. Just ask our assistant store manager, Kayla. His patience is low for being ignored, that’s why he insists to be constantly by her side or riding around on her shoulders. That’s right, he’d stay wrapped around Kayla’s neck all day long if she’d let him. Hades is also a cuddler, so time spent reading or playing games is always sweeter when he is curled up next to you.

Nahla

Our resident golden that mistakes herself for a human is Nahla. It’s because of Nahla that our merchandizing team member, Audra, stays active. It's their evening walks with neighbourhood pups and their owners that’s helped Audra through the pandemic. It’s the connection between women’s best friend and the chat’s shared with fellow dog lovers that can mean so much during difficult times. You try and resist those big brown eyes when she wants to play fetch.

Winnie

If you follow terra20 Hintonburg on Facebook than you already know store owner and manager, Alexa, loves all the doggies who come and visit her. Every Wednesday is Doggy Wednesday! Meet Winnie, her and Alexa bonded over sharing hair tips. It’s seeing those happy, wagging tags that can lift our spirits, even if we can’t take that doggy home.

Nacho and Chili

And I can’t forget Nacho and Chili, my senior dachshund duo that missed their calling as rodeo clowns. Their hobbies include barking at nothing, chasing squirrels, going on walks and security detail for when I need to use the washroom. They don’t share toys and need to take turns sitting on my lap. At the end of the day their little grey, pointy faces and kisses warm my heart, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

We hope our pets brought a smile to your face today! Have a pet that makes every day brighter? We’d love to hear all about them in the comments bellow!