The Health Benefits of Pets
Whether you have a dog, cat, fish or hamster, owning pets has a positive impact on people and their health. Pets make us feel good, increase social interaction and encourage exercise. Pet owners are also healthier, with lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Pets add structure to our day and help us develop a sense of responsibility. And they provide companionship and unconditional love.
Almost anyone can agree that their pets bring them joy. It’s no wonder that many of us spend a lot of time on social media sharing photos of our furry friends. While cute pet photos may make us feel happy, there is actually a scientific reason why these animals have such a positive effect on our lives.
Research shows that the human-animal bond can be a powerful stress-reduction tool, particularly for children. Children who are emotionally attached to their pets are more likely to show empathy toward others, which is important in developing healthy relationships. They are also less likely to act out or have problems regulating their emotions. A child’s role as a caretaker of a pet helps to build self-esteem and nurture a sense of belonging and responsibility.
A study showed that people who own pets tend to have better overall mental and physical health than those without. This includes lower blood pressure, higher levels of “good” HDL cholesterol and more frequent exercise. Pets can even help you live longer. In fact, according to one study, a person’s risk of death decreases by nearly 50 percent in the first year after they adopt a dog.
People with pets tend to walk more, play more and be more social than those without them. And pets, especially dogs, can help reduce work-related stress, according to a recent study. This may be because the presence of a dog can act as a social lubricant, prompting conversations with other pet owners while on walks or in dog parks. Pets can also be a great way to meet new people, with their owners often starting friendships in pet stores, clubs and training classes.
If you’re thinking of adding a pet to your family, it’s important to consider the temperament of different breeds, their exercise needs and space requirements before making a decision. It’s also worth talking to other members of the household to ensure everyone is on board with the commitment.
When choosing a pet, it’s important to think about its long-term care and nutritional requirements. Some pets need to be fed wet food, such as Rifruf, which is designed for brachycephalic dogs (dogs with short snouts), or other foods that can help them digest and thrive. It’s also important to remember that pets need fresh water every day and a variety of fruits, vegetables and meats to meet their nutritional requirements. Taking animals out of their natural habitats and keeping them captive can hurt their quality of life. For example, reptiles require access to a variety of plant species, which isn’t always possible for most homeowners.