The recent viral video featuring two Golden Retrievers, Wolfie and Pickles, expressing their discontent at being

excluded from a newly installed sauna serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional lives of pets. While the humorous

antics of the dogs have captured the attention of many, the implications of their emotional responses raise important

questions about the role of pets in human lives and the broader impacts on public health.

### The Emotional Lives of Pets

Research has shown that pets, particularly dogs, demonstrate a range of emotions similar to humans. This includes

feelings of joy, frustration, and even sadness when they perceive exclusion from activities their owners engage in.

Experiments have indicated that dogs can experience jealousy, which can manifest when they feel left out. This emotional

capacity suggests that the well-being of pets is closely linked to their social environment and human interactions.

### The Importance of Inclusion

The scenario depicted in the video highlights a common experience for many pet owners: the joy of including pets in

daily activities. Inclusion fosters not only a sense of belonging for pets but also enhances the bond between humans and

their animal companions. When pets feel included, it can contribute positively to their mental health, which correlates

with the overall emotional climate of the household.

### Public Health Context

From a public health perspective, the emotional well-being of pets can have wider implications. Pets are often

considered part of the family, and their mental health can influence the mental health of their owners. Studies have

shown that pet ownership can reduce stress, anxiety, and even depression in humans. Thus, fostering a supportive

environment for pets may create a positive feedback loop that benefits both animals and their owners.

### Implications for Animal Welfare Policies

This incident also raises questions about animal welfare policies. As awareness grows regarding the emotional needs of

pets, there may be an increasing call for regulations that ensure pets are not subjected to unnecessary exclusion or

stress. Public awareness campaigns could educate pet owners about the importance of inclusion and the emotional needs of

their animals, encouraging better care practices.

### Limitations and Unknowns

While the emotional experiences of pets are increasingly recognized, there remains a need for more comprehensive

research. The extent to which these emotions affect pet health and human health remains an area of exploration.

Additionally, the variability in individual pet personalities and breeds complicates the ability to generalize findings

across different animal populations.

### Community Engagement and Awareness

Engagement in community discussions about pet welfare can enhance understanding of the emotional needs of animals. This

can lead to more informed decisions by pet owners, fostering environments where pets feel secure and included. Social

media platforms, like Instagram, can play a pivotal role in spreading awareness and encouraging responsible pet

ownership.

### Conclusion

The humorous and relatable video of Wolfie and Pickles serves as a gateway to deeper discussions about the emotional

lives of pets and their implications for mental health, animal welfare, and public health policies. By recognizing the

importance of including pets in daily life, we can contribute to a more compassionate society that values the emotional

well-being of all its members, both human and animal alike.