Did you know that owning a pet can improve your overall mental and physical health? Studies show that owning a pet can lower your blood pressure and reduce your cholesterol to improve heart health.
Mental Health:
Ever had a long, stressful day at work and the second you go home to your furry companion you immediately feel relieved? Well, you are not crazy, animals are known to help reduce cortisol (a hormone activated by stress) levels in humans, hence why animals are used for therapy and emotional support. Animals not only help alleviate stress but they can help alleviate anxiety, depression, and loneliness. A pet can provide companionship through themselves but also by forcing you to get out and socialize. If you are having an off day or just need some socialization, take your dog to the park, go visit a cat cafe or visit your local animal shelter. It has been found that 40% of dog owners find it a lot easier to make friends due to their dog. Dog owners, and pet owners in general, typically love to talk about their animals; it is a great way to strike up a conversation and make new friends.
Heart health:
Owning a pet has been known to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and decrease triglyceride levels which overall improve heart health and decrease the likelihood of heart attack. This, however, should be combined with doctoral supervision and/or medicine if you already have a heart condition or high blood pressure.
Physical Health:
Owning a dog means you often find yourself taking them outside for a walk. Wither that be just 10 minutes or 30 minutes that is time that requires you to use energy and get your body moving. Studies have found that people who are generally sedentary are able to lose weight once they get a dog due to the change in activity. Don’t have time in your busy life to own a pet? Ask a friend to borrow their pet for the day to get some animal love and exercise.
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