Pets are a big part of many people’s everyday lives. If you scroll through Facebook or Instagram, there is no doubt owners go to great lengths to show off their furry friends.
There are even social media accounts dedicated solely to images of a specific pet. Even celebrities have gotten in on the trend. Take Demi Lovato for example, who has an Instagram account for her Yorkipoo named Batman. Pets can provide many emotional and physical health benefits. Read on to discover why dogs, and sometimes cats, can be man’s best friend.
Relieve Stress
Nothing beats coming home from a long day and being greeted by an animated dog or less-than-enthusiastic cat. Studies show that pets can help reduce stress and induce a calming effect.
Rebecca A. Johnson, Ph.D., the director of the Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine says that her research has shown animals can have a powerful effect on those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Provide Emotional Support
Pets can help promote a healthy state of mind. They help to boost self-esteem and feelings of autonomy. This occurs because the animal provides a positive experience despite the owner having negative events or thoughts occurring.
Animals can provide unconditional love and support. The Fair Housing Amendments Act and the Air Carrier Access Act allow those who have properly registered their emotional support dog to be present and assist them.
Some hospitals and nursing care facilities employ animals and their trainers to help provide emotional support. For example, at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Hospital, a therapy dog is stationed in the intensive care unit. The dog visits patients and provides comfort and relaxation.
Encourage Fitness
Having a pet, particularly a dog, can help to encourage a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, it can help to promote fitness and movement. Those who walk their dogs are 54% more likely to meet the recommended amount of exercise according to a study in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health.
Another added benefit of becoming more active is lower cholesterol, lower triglyceride levels, and reduced blood pressure. This, in turn, will lead to a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Prevent Allergies
Children who are exposed to pets (both dogs and cats) have a reduced risk of developing allergies later on in life. They also benefit from a stronger immune system and a lesser chance of having asthma or eczema.
Ease Chronic Pain
When you pet your animal, it can release endorphins, a natural stress and pain reliever. They also can simply distract someone who is in pain. Therapy dogs in hospitals can help patients feel better mentally and physically.
Improve Relationships
Owning a dog can lead to having more conversations which leads to social connections and friendships. You can connect with other dog owners and neighbors. Having a prosperous social life can lead to a longer, fuller life.
Monitor Health
Dogs can be trained to help monitor glucose levels for those who suffer from diabetes. Low blood sugar can be identified through the owner’s breath, which changes when they get ketoacidosis. There have also been dogs that are able to predict when someone is going to have a seizure. However, there has been no scientific evidence that proves dogs can detect every single seizure.
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