Sarah Hyland Shares a Truth All Chronically Ill Pet Parents Know

If you have a dog or other pet, then you probably know how it often seems like they understand exactly how you’re feeling — including when you’re struggling with your health. “Modern Family” star Sarah Hyland shared a sweet post about how her own dog tuned in to her health needs, and it might remind you of your own pet.

Hyland, who has kidney dysplasia and has been open about her kidney transplant and chronic health challenges, shared an Instagram story Thursday night featuring a video of her dog licking her face. “She knows I’m not feeling well,” Hyland explained. “All the kisses in the world. You make Mommy feel better.”

The caption reads, “Can’t wait to come back to my precious angel princess. She’s perfect and knows exactly what I need at all times. This was taken this past Sunday. Day before hospitalization. She was literally telling me to get treatment.”

Hyland also posted an image for National Selfie Day “sharing her truth” about her pain and encouraging others to put their health first.

The caption says:

Sometimes a selfie is more than just a good angle and feelin cute. This time for #nationalselfieday I’ve decided to share my truth. As painful as it is. So here is my face that was torn from work against my will. But I’m very grateful it was. Health should always come first. #stayhealthymyfriends.

The positive impact pets can have on their humans’ health is well-documented. Research shows pet owners have lower cholesterol, blood pressure and other heart attack risks, can alert humans to seizures and hypoglycemic episodes, and can provide emotional support.

In April, Hyland posted an Instagram story asking for help dealing with thinning hair due to the medications she’s on. In March, she asked her Twitter followers if anyone has had the experience of doctors not listening. She’s also been open about how her illness and medications like prednisone have affected her body. Last year, she spoke out against body shaming, slamming a Life & Style article that claimed she had plastic surgery. She’s also defended herself against people who’ve criticized her body, and changes she’s experienced because of illness, on social media.