4 Ways Your Pet Can Improve Your Health and Wellbeing at Any Age

Introduction

Coming home to your beloved dog or cat can give you a sense of relaxation, love, and joy. As such, it’s no wonder pet ownership has been linked to various improved health outcomes. While our canine, feline, and other animal family members can be hard on the carpet and furniture, they’re certainly not hard on our health. Research has found at least a correlation between pet ownership and improved health effects. So how might our pets boost our health? From wellbeing and physical health to stress alleviation and a sense of connection, the possible benefits of pet ownership include both physical and emotional impacts.

1. General wellbeing and physical health

Pets can support general wellbeing and physical health, and these potential benefits are wide ranging. Owning a dog, for example, is associated with getting sufficient physical activity, a better diet, and good blood glucose levels than not owning a dog. Similarly, owning a pet could be linked to decreased blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness.

The psychological benefits of pet ownership could include improved empathy, higher self-esteem, and a more positive outlook on life. Reduced restlessness, depression, and boredom are other potential benefits. Pet owners might be better able to cope with grief, stress and loss. They tend to have higher survival rates, fewer heart attacks, and fewer visits to the doctor. Pet owners are also more likely to have better sleep; lower incidence of panic attacks; and a lower risk of obesity, gastric ulcers, and migraine headaches.

For those with feline family members, cat ownership has been correlated with numerous health benefits, including better psychological health, better quality of life, and improved cardiovascular health. People with pets are less likely to have anxiety and depression, and this could be directly related to the companionship and sense of purpose our animal family members provide.

When it comes to children, animals not only provide companionship; they can help keep kids healthy and protect them from some illnesses. This is likely due to reduced risk of certain allergies because of early exposure to bacteria from animal’s mouths, which enhances how the child’s immune system develops. For adults, pets might offer a similar benefit. Our dogs and cats spend a lot of time outdoors and bring various bacteria into the home. This can enhance immunity for all family members and in turn reduce the risk of colds and other illnesses.

At the same time, pet owners should be aware of the risks of zoonoses, diseases that could be transmitted from animals to humans. Those over 65, those with suppressed immune systems, pregnant women, and children are at higher risk. Examples include ringworm, scabies, and fleas. Worming your dog, practising good hygiene, and discouraging dogs from licking anyone on the mouth are good preventative measures.

2. Stress alleviation

A dog, cat, or other animal companion could help relieve stress and in turn support better mental and physical health. Pets could help lower stress hormones and bring down your blood pressure. Patting your dog, watching your pet fish swim in an aquarium, and relaxing with your cat on the couch could all relieve stress, help you relax, and even encourage you to be more mindful and in the present moment.

Spending time with your dog or cat might give you an opportunity to step outside your own perspective and look beyond your problems or worries. Your animal family member might be calming because they’re non-judgemental and provide unconditional love and loyalty. They also offer tactile, physical affection and comfort for family members of all ages. This emotional support and physical affection could be at the root of potential stress alleviation.

3. Sense of connection and purpose

A pet can give you a sense of connection and purpose. Their presence and companionship can counteract a sense of isolation, lack of support, and loneliness. Dogs, for example, have an innate ability to share joy and provide unconditional loyal companionship. Moreover, having a pet means responsibility and commitment. You’re charged with feeding, cleaning, and exercising your pet, and this can be a source of motivation, giving you a daily sense of purpose and structure to your day.

For those who might not have a strong network of family and friends or those who experience depression and anxiety, this structure and “reason to get up in the morning” can be crucial. With animals like dogs, you also have more opportunities for social interaction. Walking your dog, attending obedience school, and going to other pet-friendly events expands your social network. For the children in your family, a pet can be a non-judgemental confidante who provides emotional support and a sense of connection.

4. Staying active

Some types of pets encourage owners to become more fit and active. Dogs, for example, need walking at least once a day. The time you spend walking your dog can boost your mental wellbeing, help you connect with nature, and stay active. Research shows dog owners are more active than people who don’t have a dog and on average obtain an additional 23 minutes of moderate exercise. This type of moderate-intensity walking, in turn, has significant health benefits. It can lower the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and other conditions.

Conclusion

A pet will repay you in loyalty, unconditional love, and possibly health benefits, but he or she will be a long-term commitment in terms of time, finances, and personal effort. Precisely how much of a health benefit having a pet has on an individual will vary from person to person. However, on the whole, the research suggests pets can provide a range of invaluable health benefits. Whilst pets can support great health for their humans, they do need a lot of care and attention. Those who have challenges looking after themselves and need care from others should speak to their doctor before taking on the role of pet owner. Doing research so you can choose the right pet for you, your family, and your lifestyle is essential.