MODERN-DAY BENEFITS OF PET OWNERSHIP

Modern-day benefits of pet ownership

Most people out there know the immediate joys that pets bring to your lives. But, little do people know about the health, physical and mental benefits a pet brings with them. Recent research has been towards exploring the benefits a human-animal bond brings to one’s life and it is quite interesting.

Even if you keep the research aside, it can be observed that animals, especially dogs, are very much receptive and attuned to human emotions, body language, gesture and even little things like voice modulation. And a lot of dog parents here will agree with us when we say that when you look into the eyes of your dog, they can understand if you are sad, happy, nervous and they reciprocate accordingly. This evolution has been because of the closeness that animals have to humans, and their increasing interdependence every year.

So, what are these benefits of pet ownership? On top of the list are things like: Pets, especially cats and dogs help in reducing anxiety, stress, depression, and loneliness. They encourage humans to exercise, uplift mood and even help people with cardiovascular diseases. And the most important benefit of all is unconditional love.

Let’s look at some of the benefits of owning a pet in detail:

Make healthy lifestyle changes by parenting pets:

There are a lot of health benefits of pet ownership. Pet adoption encourages you to make some healthy lifestyle changes that can help ease or even eliminate signs of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Changes such as:

A. Increased exercise: Walking or jogging with your dog can be good not only for your dog but also for you. A very rewarding task has multiple benefits: keeps your dog exercised so no more destructive behaviour, helps you meet your exercise goals, helps keep you healthy and fit.

B. Constant Companionship: Humans are social animals, and however we might deny, we need companionship. And, dogs are excellent companions. They help prevent mental stress by getting rid of loneliness. Afterall doesn’t it sound better coming home to a wagging tail than an empty house?

C. Helps reduce anxiety: Mental health benefits of owning a pet and benefits of dog ownership to human health are recently being studied and have proven as a huge success. Animals offer comfort that can help ease anxiety in humans. Ever noticed how pets live in the moment? You do not see them regretting some decision they made 5 years ago! This behaviour can help people boost confidence, and live life to the fullest.

D. A structured and routine life: Pets tend to be at their best when they are under a routine. Taking a cue from that, pet parents can try to introduce a routine in their lives, to be balanced, calm and prepared for anything that comes our way.

E. Stress management: It is no secret that a dog licking your face or a cat peacefully sitting on your lap is comforting.

Did you know?
Studies have shown that stroking a cat can help lower your blood pressure and make you calm!