5 Surprising Health Benefits Of Owning Cats And Dogs

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Does the idea of introducing a new dog or cat to the household overwhelm you with thoughts of responsibility and obligations you would much rather avoid? What if I told you a furry companion could be just what you need in order to improve your health and share a mutually beneficial relationship?

Maybe you’re already a devoted pet owner and know the answers that I’m about to give you. Regardless of the category you fall into, reading more reasons why owning a pet is beneficial will be enough to make to feel good!

If you’re reluctant to take the plunge into becoming a fur Mom or Dad be warned, these surprising health benefits of pet ownership may be enough to push you over into pet-owning territory.

If you’re already a dedicated, loving, pet parent, let me remind you of just a handful of ways your fur baby is adding value to your life simply by being in your home.

We’re not encouraging you to run out and adopt your next furry friend today, as there are so many important factors to consider in order to ensure the welfare of the animal, however, we hope to give you an insight into the amazing benefits a dog or cat can bring.

1. Improves Your General Health And Happiness

Reports from the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine suggest that dog and cat owners rate their general health and happiness more highly on a scale than non-pet owners. Studies from across the globe also suggest that pet owners have less doctor visits. A dog or cat may be costing you in food and time, but imagine how much you could be saving on doctor's bills!

2. Pets Can Boost Your Cardiovascular Health

The ways that pets can benefit our cardiovascular health is astounding! According to the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology, people can reduce their risk of a heart attack by up to 40 percent simply by owning a cat. Another study by the Journal of Behavioral Medicine found that people can reduce both their stress levels and their blood pressure simply by hanging out with their dog more often. That’s good news for all the dog lovers out there! Tweet - People can reduce both their stress levels and their blood pressure simply by hanging out with their dog more often!

3. Being Around Pets Can Boost Your Immunity

It feels like now, more than ever, people are being overcome by allergies, right? Did you know that being around dogs, particularly as a child, can boost your immune system? Warwick University in the UK has done studies that show kids raised in households with dogs had less allergy symptoms, less dermatitis and less days off school. Turns out a little slobber ain’t that bad after all!

4. Pets Can Boost Your Mood

After a long day at work, nothing beats coming home to a pet that is bouncing with excitement to see you. Our pets offer us unconditional love, so it’s not surprising that dogs and cats can actually improve our mood and make us happier people. Some say that taking care of themselves is hard work, let alone caring for an animal. 

However, research suggests that being a pet owner and having that responsibility actually brings a person a sense of value and importance. As well as being a companion, getting us off the couch, and keeping us in a routine, our pets can be the ones we turn to when we need our love tank filled.

5. Benefits For The Elderly

The joys of pet ownership can be enjoyed at all stages of life. You really only need to read the last four points to see how the elderly can benefit from pet ownership. With improved physical health, feelings of happiness and a companion by your side, it’s no wonder more and more aged-care facilities are encouraging dogs to become regular visitors.

What’s The Best Thing About Owning A Pet? Share Your Thoughts In The Comments Below!

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