There’s been a long debate between cat and dog owners over which pet is best, but regardless of your choice of furry friend, studies have shown that have a pet can help to reduce stress levels and live a happier life. Below are a few facts about the emotional benefits of having a feline friend or canine companion!
Emotional & Physical Benefits
Depression
Pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets.
Blood Pressure
People with pets have lower blood pressure in stressful situations than those without pets.
Relaxation
Playing with a pet can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax.
Heart Disease
Pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels (indicators of heart disease) than those without pets.
Longevity
Heart attack patients with pets survive longer than those without.
Doctor Visits
Pet owners over age 65 make 30 percent fewer visits to their doctors than those without pets.
Other Benefits
While people with dogs often experience the greatest health benefits, a pet doesn’t necessarily have to be a dog or a cat. Even watching fish in an aquarium can help reduce muscle tension and lower pulse rate.
The Importance of Companionship
One of the reasons for these therapeutic effects is that most pets fulfill the basic human need to touch. Even hardened criminals in prison have shown long-term changes in their behavior after interacting with pets, many of them experiencing mutual affection for the first time. Stroking, holding, cuddling, or otherwise touching a loving animal can rapidly calm and soothe us when we’re stressed. The companionship of a pet can also ease loneliness, and some pets are a great stimulus for healthy exercise, which can substantially boost mood.
Eating right-for-your-type and exercising according to your blood type are key to a healthy and happy mind and body, but diet and exercise can only go so far. Chronic loneliness is a real issue in the world today with serious health repercussions. In a world of constant internet connection, real physical connection can make all the difference. A furry (or not so furry) friend can help keep you the healthiest, and happiest, version of you.