Having a small pet at home can help reduce stress, improve blood pressure, prevent allergies, and benefit heart health. Additionally, walking your dog can burn over 200 calories and help tone your body.
Over the past decades, pets have become an important part of life for thousands of people around the world. According to statistics from the American Humane Association, 46% of U.S. households own at least one dog, 39% own at least one cat, while others keep lizards, parrots, fish, and more.
Pets Encourage Physical Activity
According to the American Heart Association, having an active pet can help you get off the couch or out of bed and go outdoors. Walking a pet means more physical activity and a slimmer waistline.
For example, dogs—one of the most popular pets—require regular exercise to stay healthy. Walking your dog is essential, no matter how busy you are. Each walk can burn over 200 calories. Dogs love to move, and even if you're feeling lazy, one look from your beloved pup can melt your heart. However, if even that doesn’t motivate you to grab the leash, then having a dog may not bring you the intended benefits.
Pets Bring Joy and New Connections
A busy work schedule and life’s routines can often keep you confined indoors. According to researchers at the International University of Los Angeles, having an energetic, lively pet—like a dog—can push you to break free from the four walls, meet people, and become more cheerful.
Other studies show that walking a dog provides a “social lubricant effect,” increasing the chances of starting conversations with strangers and building new relationships.
Pets Help Reduce Stress
We live in a fast-paced world, and many people are searching for ways to de-stress and relax. Raising a pet is a wonderful solution. According to research by Professor Suny Karen Allen, pet owners experience significantly lower stress levels than those without pets.
In one study, participants were asked to solve difficult math problems while researchers monitored their heart rates and blood pressure. Those with pets present made fewer mistakes and had lower heart rates and blood pressure than when accompanied only by family, spouses, or friends.
Lower Blood Pressure
Pets don’t just help with stress—they can also lower blood pressure. A study from the University at Buffalo found that out of 48 stockbrokers undergoing treatment for hypertension, 24 who were given a dog or cat showed better blood pressure control under stress than those without pets.
Help Prevent Allergies
Earlier studies suggested that being around pets could increase the risk of respiratory issues in children. However, newer research indicates that children who grow up around dogs and cats actually tend to require fewer antibiotics than those who don't.
A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that children raised in homes with furry pets or on farms with large animals had lower rates of allergies, asthma, dermatitis, and other skin conditions. Growing up with furry animals is especially beneficial to the development of a strong immune system.
Good for Your Heart
“Pets are good for your heart”—and not just in a sentimental way. A study by the American Heart Association (AHA) revealed that owning at least one pet helps maintain a healthy heart, regulates heart rate, and ultimately contributes to a longer lifespan.
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