The positive power of pets

Pet owners are quick to share the joys of having a pet. However, we don’t always think of the physical and emotional benefits that come with snuggling up to a furry friend.

Boost your health

The bond between people and their pets can lower stress, increase fitness and bring happiness to their owners. And — a pet doesn’t have to be a dog or a cat. Simply watching fish in an aquarium can reduce muscle tension and lower your pulse rate.

Some studies have shown:

• People with pets can have lower blood pressure in stressful situations than those without pets.
• Some pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels than those without pets.
• Some heart attack patients with pets survive longer than those without.
• People’s good moods increase and bad moods decrease around pets.

Provide support in aging

The obvious benefit for older people is the loving companionship a pet provides. But there are many other just as important perks.

A pet can help you:

• Find meaning and joy in life. Caring for a pet boosts morale, optimism, and provides a sense of purpose.
• Boost your immune system. Pets make us laugh and help us get exercise, which can help improve your vitality and strengthen your immune system.
• Enjoy positive, nonverbal communication from the playful interaction and gentle touch of a pet.

Help with healthy lifestyle changes

Adopting healthy lifestyle changes can sometimes play an important role in easing symptoms of depression.

Caring for a pet can help you make healthy lifestyle changes by:

• Increasing your exercise. Taking a dog for a walk can be an enjoyable and rewarding way to fit exercise into your daily routine.
• Helping you meet new people. Many find that being out with or doing activities with pets help them start a conversation with those they wouldn’t have otherwise.
• Reducing anxiety. An animal companion offers support, and can help ease anxiety and build self-confidence. Pets live in the moment and can help you do the same.

Kids learn compassion and responsibility

Some children who grow up with pets have less risk of allergies and asthma — and many learn responsibility, compassion and empathy.

• Pets aren’t critical and don’t give orders. They’re loving and their presence can offer a sense of security.
• A pet’s love and companionship can make a child feel important and help them develop a positive self-image.

In gratitude for all your pets do for you, give them a little extra TLC. A longer walk, extra brushing, a double-check to make sure their vaccines are up to date. Remind them how much they mean to you with extra pampering and attention.