It’s easy to tell that owning a pet can become a big part of our lives. From training as service animals to becoming valued members of our families, our furry companions have a special spot in our hearts and in our homes!
What may surprise you, though, is that owning a pet is an excellent way to get healthy and keep up with good habits. Many people report that having a cat or a dog has not only shaped their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well!
If you have a pet yourself, you’ve likely experienced the health benefits that come with adopting and caring for your special friend. And, if you haven’t yet found a four-legged addition to your family, perhaps you might consider bringing one home and reaping some of the amazing benefits below!
How Your Pet Can Benefit Your Health
Owning a pet can do a lot of good for our bodies – even in ways we’ve never thought about before! Here are some surprising ways that they help to enrich our lives:
- You’ll feel better physically – Having a pet can reduce the physical symptoms of stress and anxiety such as high blood pressure, muscle tension and fatigue. Animals also keep your immune system performing at its best! When we experience stress, our bodies fill with harmful chemicals that affect our ability to fight off infections and disease. However, having pets lowers that risk!
- You’ll feel better emotionally – Pets help us feel better when we’re feeling lonely or sad, and studies have indicated that interacting with them can elevate serotonin and dopamine levels in our brain. As a result, we feel calmer and happier. Caring for animals can also eliminate frustration and help build self esteem!
- You’ll get more exercise – Owning a pet, and dogs, specifically, gives you a great reason to get outside and move! They require lots of time for walking, running, jumping and burning energy, and this can help you stay active! Even walking at a moderate pace for 30-60 minutes can burn fat, build muscle and boost your metabolism. Just imagine what that kind of activity can do for your pet!
Doctors, medicine and workout routines aren’t the only ways to stay healthy! As you can see, pets can shape our health and our lives in a variety of ways.
How has your pet helped YOU? We’d love to hear about it! Share with us in the comments below about the ways your pet has helped change your life for the better. Maybe you’ll inspire someone else!
Want More Information About Pets and Health?
If you still have questions or want to learn more about the enrichment that pets can bring to your life, you can read the full article from Your Weight Matters Magazine by clicking here.
