Introduction: We call our pets our best friend for a very good reason. Pets not only bring joy, companionship and love into our lives but they can also improve our health in unexpected ways. Ownership of a pet has a positive impact on physical, mental and emotional health. In this listicle, we'll explore 12 surprising ways that owning a pet can improve your health and make you happier.
Provide Companionship
The companionship of a pet can be one of the greatest benefits. We can always count on our pets to be there when we are having a bad time or need someone to chat with. This is especially helpful for older adults who are feeling lonely or isolated.
Lower Blood pressure
Did you realize that having a pet could help reduce your blood pressure levels? According to a study conducted by the American Heart Association, petting your furry friend can have a calming effect on your body, which can lead to lower blood pressure levels. This is beneficial to older adults, who are at higher risk for high pressure.
Improve Mood
Possessing a pet has a positive influence on our mood. Spending time with pets, whether it is playing with a pet or taking a walk with one, can bring us happiness and joy. It's because pet releases oxytocin (also known as "love hormone"), which can improve your mood and overall well-being.
Give Unconditional love
The unconditional love that pets offer is one of the best things about pet ownership. Pets love us unconditionally and don't hold grudges. This can be especially comforting during times of stress or hardship.
Offer Emotional Support
Animals can provide emotional support to those who are struggling with trauma or mental health issues. Therapy dogs for example are specially trained to offer comfort and support to those suffering from anxiety, depression and PTSD. Spending time with pets can also help to alleviate loneliness or sadness.
Boost Immune System
You may not believe it, but owning a cat or dog can actually boost the immune system. The studies have shown that kids who grow up around pets are less prone to allergies and asthma. Pets are also a source of germs and bacteria that help boost our immunity.
Improve Memory
Owning a pet can also improve our memory. A study conducted by the University of Liverpool found that pet owners aged over 50 did better in memory tests than those who didn't own pets. This is because animals provide mental stimuli and can keep our mind active and engaged.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Pets have an incredible ability to reduce stress and anxiety in their owners. Petting a pet cat or dog can cause endorphins to be released in the brain. This promotes calmness. A National Institutes of Health report found that having a pet could positively impact your mental health.
Socialization of the Increased
Ownership of a pet is also a great way to increase socialization. This is especially true for those people who find it difficult to meet new people. You can build relationships by taking your dog on walks, going to pet-related events or talking with other pet owners.
Provide a Feeling of Safety
Pets are a great way to provide security and comfort in your home. Particularly dogs can protect us against potential intruders by acting as a natural alert system. In addition, having a pet at home can help us feel less lonely and offer a sense protection and comfort.
Improve Heart Health
Your heart health can also be positively affected by having a pet. According to American Heart Association's guidelines, owning pets can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering cholesterol and triglyceride in the blood. Regularly walking your dog can improve your cardiovascular health.
Teach Responsibility
Taking care of a pet teaches us responsibility, particularly for children. Feeding, grooming, and exercising a pet can help children develop important life skills and learn the value of caring for others. This can help them develop empathy, compassion, and understanding for both people and animals.
You can see from the above that having a pet is a great way to improve your health. From reducing stress and anxiety to promoting physical activity and improving our mood, pets offer many benefits that can improve our quality of life. If you're considering getting a pet, take the time to find the right one for you and your lifestyle. Love and companionship from a dog, a cat, or other pet are priceless.
The Most Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of pet is best for someone with allergies?
Consider getting an hypoallergenic pet if allergies are a problem. A sphynx or a Poodle would be good choices. These breeds are less likely to produce dander which can make them more tolerant for those with allergies.
How can I be sure that my dog is getting enough activity?
You should set aside time every day to allow your pet to be active, whether it is a daily walk or a game of toys. Consider hiring a pet sitter or dog walker to ensure that your pet gets enough exercise.
How can I keep my pet from damaging my furniture?
You can redirect your dog's attention away from your furniture by providing them with toys and scratching points. Use furniture protectors or deterrent sprays to prevent damage.
What should I do when my pet shows signs of aggression
If your pet is showing signs of aggression, seek the help of a professional trainer or behaviorist. Take additional steps to ensure your safety and the safety of others around your pet.
How can I introduce another pet or human to my pet?
Introduce your pet slowly to other animals or people and monitor all interactions. Positive reinforcement techniques such as praise and treats can help your pet become more confident and comfortable in unfamiliar situations.
FAQ
Which size are cats and dogs easier to train?
Both. It all depends on how you train them.
They will learn quicker if you reward them for following the instructions. You can ignore them if they don’t listen. They’ll eventually start to ignore your commands.
There is no right or wrong way to teach your cat or dog. You have to decide what the best way is to teach your cat/dog.
Should I spay/neuter my dog?
Yes! It's very important to spay or neuter your dog.
It reduces the number of unwanted dogs in the world and also lowers the chance of developing certain diseases.
Female dogs are more likely to get breast cancer than male dogs.
The risk of testicular tumors is higher in males and females.
The spaying or neutering of your pet can also help to prevent her from having babies.
What's the best pet?
The best pet you can have is the one you love. There is no right or wrong answer. Everyone has a different opinion on what pet is best.
Some people believe that cats are better than dogs. Others believe dogs are more loyal, loving, and affectionate. Still, others argue that birds are the best pet.
You must choose the right type of pet for you, regardless of what breed.
If you are friendly and outgoing, a dog might be the right choice. A cat is the best choice for you if you are shy or reserved.
You should also consider the size and layout of your home. If your apartment is small, you'll need to have a smaller pet. On the other hand, a large house means that you'll need more space.
Remember, pets need lots and lots of attention. Pets need to be fed frequently. They should be taken on walks. And they need to be brushed and cleaned.
These are the things that will help you choose the right pet for you.
How can I tell if my dog has fleas
If you notice your pet scratching at its fur, licking itself excessively, or looking dull and unkempt, then chances are he/she may have fleas.
Flea infestations may also be indicated if your pet is experiencing redness.
Take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as you can for treatment.
How long should a pet dog stay inside?
Dogs are curious by nature. Dogs require an outlet for their curiosity. If they don't have a place to go, they can be destructive. This can cause damage to property and injuries to people.
Dogs should always be kept on a leash when outside. The leash protects dogs from being in trouble and allows them to explore their environment without fear.
Your dog will be bored and restless if you keep him inside. He will begin to chew furniture and other things. His nails may grow too long, which could lead to health issues.
It is best to allow your dog to run free at least one day per week to avoid these unfortunate consequences. You can take your dog for a walk in the neighborhood, ride in the car or to the park.
This will allow him to burn energy and give him something useful.
What is pet insurance?
Pet Insurance offers financial protection to pets in case they are injured or become sick. It also covers routine medical care like vaccinations, spaying/neutering and microchipping.
Additional benefits include emergency treatment in the event your pet becomes ill or is involved in an accident.
There are 2 types of pet insurance.
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Catastrophic – This insurance pays for the medical costs of your cat in case of serious injury.
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Non-catastrophic – This type covers routine costs for veterinary care, including vaccinations, microchips or spays/neuters.
Certain companies offer both catastrophic coverage and non-catastrophic. Others offer just one or the other.
These costs are covered by a monthly payment. The amount you spend on your pet’s care will determine the cost.
This insurance will cost you differently depending on the company that you choose. Do your research before purchasing.
You may be eligible for discounts if more than one policy is purchased by the company.
You can transfer your pet insurance plan to another company if you are already insured.
If you do not want to buy pet insurance, you'll need to make all of the payments.
However, there are still ways to save money. Ask your veterinarian for information about discounts.
If your pet sees you often, he may discount you.
Or, you can find a local animal shelter where you can adopt a pet instead of paying for one.
It doesn't matter what kind or type of insurance you have, you should always carefully read the fine print.
It will inform you of the amount of your coverage. If you don't understand something, contact the insurer immediately.
Statistics
- Monthly costs are for a one-year-old female mixed-breed dog and an under one-year-old male domestic shorthair cat, respectively, in excellent health residing in Texas, with a $500 annual deductible, $5,000 annual benefit limit, and 90% reimbursement rate. (usnews.com)
- It's among a relatively few companies that provide policies with a full (100%) coverage option, meaning you are not responsible for any co-payment of bills. (money.com)
- It is estimated that the average cost per year of owning a cat or dog is about $1,000. (sspca.org)
- For example, if your policy has a 90% reimbursement rate and you've already met your deductible, your insurer would pay you 90% of the amount you paid the vet, as long as you're still below the coverage limits of your policy. (usnews.com)
- Reimbursement rates vary by insurer, but common rates range from 60% to 100% of your veterinary bill. (usnews.com)
External Links
How To
The best way to tell a dog where it is appropriate to go to urinate.
It's important to show your pet how to properly use the toilet. You should also know how to train your pet if they go outside alone. Here are some tips that will help you teach your dog the correct way to go to the bathroom.
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It is important to start training early. Start training now if you don't want to have any accidents in playtime.
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You can reward your pet with food. Your pet will be more successful if you give them a reward after each successful trip.
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Be sure to keep treats out of the area where your dog pees. This could lead to your dog identifying urine smell as his favorite treat.
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Before you allow your dog outside, make sure that no other animal is nearby. Dogs may be influenced by the behavior of others who relieve themselves.
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Be patient. Sometimes it might take your puppy longer to understand things than an adult.
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Your dog should be able to smell everything before she can go in the bathroom. She will be more successful if she is able to smell the toilet before entering.
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Do not allow your dog to go near the bathroom while you take care of business. That could lead to confusion.
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Once you're finished, wipe down the toilet bowl and the floor. These areas will serve to remind you of what to do the next time.
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Clean up any messes immediately. Make sure your dog is completely clean after an accident. If he doesn't, he may try again to relieve himself.