If anything can bring humans together, it’s frequently the love of pets. From cats and dogs to pigs and snakes, millions of people around the world have animal companions. You may seek your pet’s affection whenever you feel down from a bad day, but do you know the tangible health-related benefits pet ownership brings? Owning a pet uplifts your mind and body in multiple ways — decades of scientific research prove it.
Whether you already have a pet at home, or you’re in the market for one, this post will provide some useful insight into the healthful advantages of pet ownership. Here are seven ways animals can improve your wellness.
- They Lower Blood Pressure
Researchers have found petting your dog can lower your blood pressure. Interacting with a friendly, furry creature releases oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine — all hormones contributing to elevated mood. These hormones reduce the amount of cortisol in your body, which is one of the many contributing factors for hypertension. Although most people experience high blood pressure as they age, pets can stave off the more damaging effects with their innate healing abilities.
- They Increase Heart Health
People with pets reportedly live longer than those without them due to a lessened risk of cardiovascular disease. They have reduced chances for heart attacks and strokes due to their lower blood pressure rates and improved moods. Male pet owners in one study displayed diminished levels of the triglycerides and cholesterols responsible for heart attacks. A survey of Central Europeans revealed people with pets have higher levels of “good” HDL cholesterol levels and lower rates of diabetes.
Those who’ve already suffered a heart attack can still benefit, however. The presence of a beloved pet facilitates speedier recovery because of various other health benefits they bring. Plus, having a friend at your bedside while sick will make almost anyone feel better.
- They Encourage Physical Activity
Pets — especially dogs — encourage physical activity through all the walking, fetching and chasing you do with them. One case study demonstrated that a 10-year-old boy with cerebral palsy showed motor skill improvements after participating in an exercise program with his family dog. The increased activity you get from owning a playful pet can build up your stamina, improve joint mobility and help you lose weight.
A report from BMC Public Health showed that dog owners walk an additional 22 minutes daily. They are also less sedentary than non-dog owners and more likely to hit national physical activity guidelines.
- They Increase Allergy Resistance
If your relatives owned any furry fellows during your childhood, you have them to thank for your healthy immune system. Exposure to animals during youth can reduce the risk of allergy development in later years, and this immunity grows stronger with the more cats or dogs you own. The presence of multiple animals in a home creates a “mini-farm” effect — a similar phenomenon found on farms with dozens of animals.
This pet-owning advantage comes from prolonged exposure to pet dander and bacteria, which strengthens your immune system. Many people know proper exposure to bacteria can prevent you from getting sick — the same rule applies to animals. Although this allergy resistance might not apply to you as an adult, it’s something to consider if you have kids later on.
- They Provide Socialization
Taking a walk with your dog or bringing your cat to the vet provides plenty of opportunities to talk with other owners. Dog parks are perfect spots for letting Fido get some exercise while meeting new people. Many apartment complexes, stores and even restaurants are pet-friendly, and they serve as ideal spots for bumping into pet-loving strangers. You can also get to know people through online pet communities such as GoPetie and animal-dedicated Facebook groups.
- They Can Prevent Eczema
Dogs and cats can prevent childhood eczema for many of the same reasons they act as allergy fighters. Scientists are unclear about the exact origins of eczema, but they’ve deduced that it comes from an overreaction in the immune system. Having pets around acclimates you to bacteria exposure, which reduces your chances of developing that itchy, annoying skin condition. A study found women exposed to dogs during pregnancy gave birth to children with a lowered risk of eczema.
- They Alleviate Depression
A pet can lessen the effects of isolation, which can cause depression if prolonged. Maybe you’ve moved to a new city and don’t know a single soul who lives there. While you’re in the process of making new friends, your beloved pet will always be home at the end of the day to provide cuddles and comfort.
In a recent study, Portuguese researchers gathered 80 participants who were taking antidepressants and asked 33 of them to adopt dogs or cats. More than a third of the new pet owners showed improvement in their depressive symptoms or went into remission. This investigation suggests owning a pet can be a useful complement to the effects of pre-existing antidepressant use.
Appreciate Your Four-Legged Friends
Pets provide laughter, joy and wellness within countless lives every day. It’s no wonder so many people consider theirs as members of the family. Whether your issues are physical or emotional, your pet will be sure to inspire good health.
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