Little things can compare to the joy of coming home to meet a loyal, enthusiastic companion. A pet can do more than keep you company because they will love you unconditionally.
So, do you have furry friends sitting at your feet or curled up on the couch beside you? Your furry friend could positively impact your physical and mental health.
A pet can improve heart health, decrease stress, and even help with emotional and social skills. It’s not surprising that many households have a pet. But the question is, who benefits from an animal? Also, which type of pet can bring health benefits?
Questions of such have been attempted to be answered by Waltham Petcare Science Institute when the National Institutes of Health (N.I.H.) partnered with them. The research suggests that pets’ potential mental and physical benefits differ from dogs to cats or other animals.
Even though it’s true that owning a pet can make you experience more significant health benefits than those without, a pet doesn’t always have to be a dog or a cat. You could own a rabbit if you’re allergic to other animals or have restricted space.
In addition, birds can promote socialisation and help older adults keep their minds sharp. Seeing a fish in an aquarium can help lower your pulse rate and reduce muscle tension.
Owning a pet comes with great responsibility; it may also come with substantial health benefits. Continue reading to know the ways a pet may make you stay happier and healthier.
The benefits of owning a pet
Those who own a pet learn the joys of sharing their lives with companion animals. But many people don’t know the mental and physical health benefits that accompany the pleasure of cosying on a furry friend.
1. Pets May Promote Mental Health
Cats and dogs can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. They can ease loneliness, improve cardiovascular health, and encourage playfulness and exercise. Children that care for animals can be more secure and active while they grow up.
Pets have progressed to adjust to humans, our emotions, and our behaviours. Take dogs as an example; they can understand many words we use and are even better at interacting with our body language, gestures, and tone of voice.
Overall, a pet provides valuable companionship for older adults and can add absolute joy and unconditional love to people’s lives.
2. They can help you make healthy lifestyle changes.
Embracing healthy lifestyle changes may play a crucial role in relieving symptoms of stress, anxiety, bipolar disorder, P.T.S.D., and depression. You could make your lifestyle healthy by caring for pets.
3. Pets may help you meet new people.
A pet can be a social lubricant for its owners by assisting them in starting and maintaining new friendships. Dog owners usually stop and speak in a dog park, on hikes, or walks. Pet owners can also meet new people in clubs, training classes, and pet stores.
4. They may help you exercise more
Taking a dog for a run, hike, or walk are rewarding and fun ways to incorporate healthy daily exercise into your plan.
Need to speak to a doctor? Talk to one within minutes online on Doctall.
