Here we take you through some of the ways owning a pet can benefit your health, be that a cat, dog, budgie or rat!
When it comes to owning a pet, there are a number of different health benefits, including physical and emotional. They can even enhance your social skills and calm you down when you’re stressed.
1. Strong immune systems
Research published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, shows that children who were exposed to animals early on in life, tend to develop stronger immune systems. Although not great if you’re already an adult struggling with allergies. But this could be welcome news to young families where this currently isn’t an established issue.
2. Aid social skills
Certain pets could also help aid your social skills. Animals can be an instant ice-breaker, whether you’re taking your dog for a walk or your cat to the vet. They help with meeting and interacting with other pet owners because they are a mutual interest and give you something to talk about.
Training classes and going to country parks or dog parks are just a few ways to meet new people.
3. Stress relieving
Research has shown that pet owners seem to exhibit decreased blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These can all help to minimise the chances of having a heart attack in later life. Having a pet will help owners to control and even decrease their stress levels. That is as long as your pet behaves itself!
4. Fitness
If you’re a dog owner then having to take your dog for a walk multiple times a day, adds another element of fitness into your routine. You can mix it up by going hiking, running or agility training, if you want something a bit more strenuous than walking.
Your dog will more than likely be setting the pace too!
5. Raise your spirits
The power of unconditional love between you and your pet shouldn’t be underestimated! Pets can help to raise your spirits if you’re in a bad mood and help to combat feelings of loneliness. It can give you something to focus on and be responsible for, providing companionship at the same time. This is increasingly common among certain groups, including the elderly.
There will be more laughter in your life because of a pet. These gloriously clever yet mysterious characters will become part of your family and form memories. They’re also going to be the most excited when you return home from work (even if that is because they know they’re going to be fed).
Furry friends obviously take a lot of looking after, but they can help towards creating a healthier lifestyle and can calm you down when things get stressful! If you don’t already have a pet, then maybe a trip down to a rescue shelter might not be a bad idea! Just make sure you share your cute photos with us on our Facebook page.