Top 5 Health Benefits of Having a Pet

We all want our pets to live the best lives possible. Besides providing you with bedtime purr sessions and slobbery kisses, have you ever stopped to think about the health benefits of pets?

There is evidence to suggest that human-animal interaction may increase your quality of life. Take a look at the ways pet ownership can improve your overall well-being every day.

1. Physical Health

If you’ve been looking for a new exercise routine, look no further than your four-legged friend. Dogs (and cats!) need regular low-impact exercise to keep them in shape. Dog ownership means getting to regularly accompany them on walks, hikes, and park adventures.

Dog owners walk an average of 22 minutes more per day, according to a study from BMC Public Health. In addition to our own physical activity, pet owners spend extra time exercising their pets on daily walks. This means double the workouts!

2. Mental Health Benefits

There is a good reason therapy animals are so effective. Pets can lower stress and recognize signs of panic attacks. They have even been shown to reduce levels of cortisol (stress hormone) and lower high blood pressure.

Those of us suffering from depression can form a special bond with animals. This can help heal trauma, provide motivation and create healthy companionships. It’s important to keep our mental health in check. Having your furry friend by your side can reap emotional benefits.

3. Social Life

Pets can have positive effects on your social interactions. If you’re on a walk or at the pet store, chances are someone will stop to gush about how adorable your pet is. Cats and dogs can be great icebreakers while you’re out and about and help prevent social isolation.

You’re more inclined to start a conversation with a stranger when you get to talk about your favorite subject–your pet! In the 2015 study The Pet Factor, over 80 percent of the participants said “they had got to know people in their neighborhood whom they didn’t know previously” just by going outside with their pets. More years, more life…more friends!

4. Heart Health

Your feline companions are cardiologists in disguise! Studies suggest that cats decrease our risks of stroke, heart disease, and lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

Research performed by the University of Minnesota’s Stroke Institute in Minneapolis showed that non-cat owners are 30 to 40 percent more likely to die of cardiovascular concerns. Many scientists attribute these findings to cats calm nature, low-maintenance care, and ability to lower our heart rate and stress levels simply by being their furry selves.

5. Allergies

Old wives’ tales have led us to believe that surrounding ourselves with pets would increase our allergies. Contrary to popular belief, early exposure to pets can actually help boost immunity and prevent allergy-related symptoms.

A study by Clinical and Experimental Allergy showed that children exposed to pets within the first year of life were less likely to have allergies and asthma problems as adults. So, introducing pets to the immune system early may set your family up for many loving pets to come!

Final Thoughts

The human-animal bond is a significant one–unconditional love goes a long way for your oxytocin. Our companion animals can give us a lot to be grateful for! How do you experience the benefits of pet ownership?

Blog Post Written By:
Jasmine Kemper
JustFoodForDogs Nutrition Consultant