Did you know that owning a pet is good for your health?
Not only do pets provide you a source of unconditional love, but according to recent research out of State University of New York and by the CDC, owning a pet boosts mood, reduces stress, and wards off illness.
Below we delve deeper into the many benefits of having a furry friend.
Decreases stress. Researchers found that individuals did better and reported lower stress levels when performing stressful tasks with their pets as opposed to with friends or family members.
Lowers blood pressure. Having a pet has shown to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of hypertension in high-risk patients. Dogs in particular have special blood pressure lowering abilities.
Eases aches and pains. Chronic pain such as arthritis and migraines are often not helped by prescription medications. A more natural remedy may prove beneficial. Pets reduce anxiety which in turn reduces pain
Lowers cholesterol. Pets are heart-healthy. Those who own pets have significantly lower cholesterol than those who don’t.
Improves mood. Probably the biggest and most direct benefit of pet ownership is an improved mental and emotional state. There’s a reason pets are used for therapy. They help ward off depression and ease anxiety, in addition to bringing laughter and joy to your life.
Helps your social life. Dogs in particular increase the amount of time individuals are out in public. You have to take your dogs for walks, to the dog park, and partake in training activities, all opportunities for socialization.
Prevents strokes. This one’s for the cats. Cat owners are 30% less likely to have a heart attack. An added bonus: cats and dogs help with recovery from strokes and heart attacks.
Prevents allergies and improves immunity. If your kids suffer from allergies, getting a pet can help. Doctors say that the more pets children have, the less allergies they have as adults.