Have you ever felt the comfort of having your furry friend snuggled up next to you? It’s no secret that pets hold a special place in our hearts and homes. In fact, many pet owners consider their cats and dogs as part of the family. But did you know that pets can also improve our physical and emotional well-being?
According to Dr. Larena Davis, counselor and clinical director for The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper, the therapeutic benefits of animals date back centuries. Even the ancient Greeks recognized the uplifting effect horses had on the sick. And in medieval Belgium, humans and animals were rehabilitated together, highlighting the positive impact of companionship.
Fast forward to modern times, and scientific research continues to confirm the positive effects of pets on our well-being. Studies have shown that pets can help lower blood pressure, decrease stress and anxiety, and even reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, pets can provide emotional support and improve our mood, especially for those dealing with depression or loneliness.
So, the next time you cuddle up with your furry friend, remember that they are more than just a cute and cuddly companion. They are also a source of comfort and well-being for both body and soul.
Having Pets Lowers Blood Pressure
Did you know that owning a pet can have a positive impact on your blood pressure? Research has shown a correlation between pet ownership and lower blood pressure levels.
As far back as 1988, a study found that petting dogs could lower heart rates and blood pressure. Another study conducted in Australia in 1992 found that pet owners had lower blood pressures compared to those who didn’t own pets, even if they had similar body mass indexes and socioeconomic profiles.
More recent studies have also found similar results, with married couples and older adults showing lower levels of high blood pressure if they owned a pet. Furthermore, pet owners have been found to have lower levels of triglycerides and cholesterol, while heart attack patients have a better chance of survival if they have a furry friend at home.
It’s no wonder that the American Heart Association suggests that owning a pet, particularly a dog, can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. So, not only do pets provide us with love and companionship, but they can also help keep our hearts healthy!
Our Stress And Anxiety Levels Lower When Pets Are Around
Stress and anxiety can take a toll on our mental and physical health, but did you know that pets can help alleviate these negative feelings? Pets can have a calming effect on our minds and bodies, allowing us to worry less and feel more relaxed. Interacting with animals can reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol. In fact, a 2018 study found that therapy dogs were particularly helpful for university students experiencing stress.
Even in childhood, pets can have a positive impact on our mental health. A 2015 study found that growing up with a pet dog was linked to lower levels of anxiety in children.
These findings suggest that pets can provide us with a much-needed sense of calm and peace, which can be especially helpful during stressful times.
They Make Us Feel More Appreciated
Pets have a remarkable ability to make us feel loved and happy as our furry companions can increase our levels of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. These hormones play a significant role in making us feel good and promoting happiness.
Oxytocin, in particular, is often referred to as the “love” hormone. It helps foster the development of strong bonds with others, such as the bond between a parent and their child. Researchers have discovered that when dogs and their owners interact or simply gaze into each other’s eyes, both parties experience a surge in oxytocin. This phenomenon demonstrates the incredible emotional connection that exists between humans and their pets.
So, the next time you snuggle up with your furry friend, take a moment to appreciate the love and joy they bring to your life. Not only do they offer companionship and comfort, but they also have the ability to boost our well-being and create a sense of happiness and contentment.
We Never Feel Alone With Them
Pets can be the perfect remedy for loneliness, offering us companionship and acceptance whenever we need it. They are always ready to love us, no matter our circumstances. They don’t care about our income, our address, or our job title – they just love us for who we are.
Humans have a fundamental need for love and connection, and pets can fulfill that need by providing endless amounts of affection. By talking to, touching, and cuddling with our furry friends, we can combat feelings of stress, loneliness, and sadness, among other negative emotions.
It’s no wonder that so many people have turned to pets for comfort during the pandemic. According to a 2021 study from Malaysia, pets have been shown to boost mental health and well-being, especially during times of isolation and lockdown.
Pets Make Us Go Out With Nature
Having a pet can encourage you to lead a more active lifestyle. This is especially true for dog owners who need to take their pets for regular walks and playtime outside. In fact, according to mental health counselor Tasha Holland-Kornegay, dog owners walk an average of 22 more minutes per day than those without dogs.
Not only does this increase physical activity, but it can also have positive effects on mental health. Exercise is known to be beneficial for reducing anxiety, depression, and negative moods.
Furthermore, for some people, having a pet can be the extra motivation needed to leave the house and get some fresh air. This is particularly helpful for those living with mental health conditions that may lead to social isolation or staying indoors.
Final Reminder: One Pet Is Enough
If you’re looking for a furry companion to boost your mental health, you might wonder if one type of animal is better than another. While there’s still a lot we don’t know, most research so far has focused on the mental health benefits of dogs.
For instance, a 2016 study found that dog owners had the highest overall feelings of well-being, compared to cat owners and non-pet people. The reasons are not well-established, though.
Cats can be more independent, while dogs usually make it a goal to be dependent to people and are considered pack animals. But the sense of reward may be greater with dogs because they require more responsibility. Taking care of them and getting outside more can boost self-esteem, in addition to that.
However, for some people, that added responsibility might be too much, especially if they have physical limitations that slow or prevent their ability to give the dogs the care and exercise they need. In that case, a lower-maintenance pet, such as a cat, might be a better choice. Ultimately, the best pet for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
