Health Benefits of Owning a Pet

Pet affection and loyalty can do more than provide companionship and happiness. That soft caress or snuggling with your furry friend can improve your health. Animals can help you feel better just like the most modern medicine or treatment. Pets help reduce anxiety and stress and help you better cope with health problems or disorders. Who doesn’t feel better when a pet comes to cuddle, greets you with loving eyes, an animated face (i.e. the “doggie smile”), floppy ears or wagging tail?

The bond and unconditional love between humans and animals can provide an emotional and physical boost.

Research shows that the simple act of petting an animal can lower blood pressure. Other studies found that heart attack patients who owned pets lived longer than those who didn’t. Pets are used in recovery from heart disease, cancer, mental health conditions and other afflictions. Other studies reveal that pet interaction produces higher levels of human hormones that help the body heal and grow new cells.

If you’re suffering from a condition or in recovery, talk with your family about adopting a shelter pet. Speak with shelter administrators about why you want to adopt a pet. They’ll help you adopt a pet that’s best for you, according to your circumstances and needs, and will try to pair you with the right pet based on its temperament, energy and how much care it will require. A pet could be the best medicine you’ll ever take.