Animal companionship can provide us with so many benefits. From gaining a boost of happiness when they’re excited to see us, to the comfort they offer during times of stress, our day-to-day interactions with pets can be very impactful. Many of these impacts are even supported by research and may extend to long-term advantages.
Below, we’ll look at the connection between pets and human health.
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Walking Towards Better Health: The Pet Connection
Let’s start with the ways pets can help us physically. Exercising daily is a must for our physical well-being. Although we all recognize this to be true, life often gets in the way of such pursuits. Whether it’s a sedentary job or balancing a hectic family schedule, we aren’t always as active as we should be at times. Pets, especially dogs, can help people stay active. Great for motivation, regularly walking a dog or tending to a pet’s needs gets us up and moving.
Pets and Heart Health: The Surprising Connection
Tied closely with this is another physical benefit: stronger heart health. Routine exercise is linked with lower blood pressure and decreased risk of heart disease. So too is pet ownership. In fact, studies show people with pets have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels – both indicators of heart disease — than those without pets. When combined, stress-relieving capabilities and increased activity levels can lead to better overall physical health.
Mental Wellness Unleashed: The Power of Pet Interactions
Animal companions can also provide a myriad of mental health-boosting benefits. Research has found owners are less likely to suffer from depression and loneliness than people without pets. Many believe this is due to the chemical reactions in our brains from pet interactions. When playing with a cat, dog, or other pet, a person may experience elevated levels of serotonin and dopamine. These hormones help bring on a sense of calm. Such relaxation can be even more constructive for those who are particularly stressed or anxious.
Pet Friends and Social Bonds: The Pet-Driven Connections
In addition to chemical reactions, the presence of a pet in the household may provide a sense of attachment as well as emotional well-being. There’s also the social aspect. Pets give us companionship and, especially with dogs, help facilitate social interactions. By helping us meet new acquaintances at the dog park or ease into a gathering at someone’s home, pets can be great for overall positive social involvement.
These examples merely scratch the surface of the studies done on the potential benefits of pet ownership. However, it’s still vital to maintain regular visits for your pet and yourself. Signing up for cost assistance such as Pumpkin Pet Insurance services can make these trips less stressful.
If you want to learn more about the connection between pets and human health, please see the accompanying resource.
