Having a Pet Can Increase Your Health

As I begin typing this article, my fingers are fighting an eager kitten pouncing on the keyboard.  He’s just one of the pets in my family’s household and a source of great joy at the end of a long workday. Most households in the United States have at least one pet. Studies show that a bond with your pet can increase your health, lower stress and depression, and bring you happiness. Some health benefits of having a pet include decreased blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness. Having a pet also increases opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities, as well as opportunities for socialization.  What else do pets offer to our health and well-being?

Fighting off allergies.

Studies suggest that kids growing up in a home with “furry animals”, whether it’s a cat, dog, or a farm animal, have less risk of allergies and asthma. If a dog lives in the home, infants are less likely to show evidence of pet allergies. They also are less likely to have eczema. In addition, they have higher levels of immune system chemicals — a sign of stronger immune system.

Helps With Aging.

Studies show Alzheimer patients have fewer anxious outbursts if there is an animal in the home. Caregivers also feel less burdened when there is a pet, particularly if it is a cat, which generally requires less care than a dog.  Walking a dog or just caring for a pet can provide exercise, accountability, and companionship.

Fighting heart disease.

People under stress get into a “state of dis-ease,” in which harmful chemicals like cortisol and norepinephrine can negatively affect the immune system. Studies show a link between these chemicals and plaque buildup in arteries, which may lead to heart disease. Playing with a dog can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine — nerve transmitters known to have pleasurable and calming properties. People use drugs to raise serotonin and dopamine, but the healthier way to do this includes petting our pet, or hugging our spouse, watching sunsets, or being around something beautiful in nature.

Heart attack patients who have pets survive longer than those without, according to several studies. Male pet owners have less signs of heart disease, lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels, than non-owners.

If you aren’t already snuggling with a pet while reading this, be sure to take time to enjoy your pets. My kitten has slowed down and fallen asleep with his chin on the keyboard. For me, he’s a reminder to slow down, lighten up, and always find a little adventure every day.  

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