The Health Benefits of Owning a Pet

How Fido or Tigger Can Help You Live Longer

Dec 22, 2008 Lisa Annunziato

Pet ownership can be a difficult decision, but not many people know the amazing health benefits of owning a pet.

Having a pet is often a controversial topic among households. The children want one, and the parents are unwilling to take on the care and clean up required of such a big commitment. But, while having an animal is a decision that should certainly be well thought out due to the big responsibility, pet ownership also has many health benefits that may tilt the scales in favor of giving an animal a loving home with your family.

Lowered Stress Equals Better Health

Stress is one of the biggest causes of disease, and something that often is very difficult to reduce. Under stress, the chemicals norepinephrine and cortisol negatively affect health, which can cause disease. But, owning a pet you are attached to can lower high blood pressure, keep depression at bay, increase immunity, and even reduce risk for developing heart disease. Hugging your dog or cat can increase the neurotransmitters seratonin and dopamine that are stimulated in the pleasure center of the brain, which is the healthy way to ward off stress and depression. Studies have shown less of a likelihood of heart attack, less anxious outbursts in Alzheimer's patients, and even increased life span for pet owners versus those who do not own pets.

Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle

There is little argument from owners of puppies or kittens that they are high energy! But, many do not take the time to examine what playing with your pet or walking your high energy furry friend can do for your health. Lack of exercise can be a huge predictor of diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Giving your pet the exercise he or she demands can also help the owner to become more healthy through exercise. Why not take your dog out for a jog on a beautiful spring day? The both of you will be happier and healthier as a result!

One Less Allergic Child

In order for people to build immunity to allergens, they have to be exposed to them often enough for their system to be able to fight them off successfully. The same holds true with animal allergies. Studies have shown that children who are exposed to animal dander and allergens brought in by a pet from an early age showed a decreased risk of allergies and asthma as they grew.

Mental Health and Special Needs

Dogs have long been excellent for helping those with special needs. It is well-documented that dogs help children with autism become more able to connect. They can also be trained to detect seizures, assist the blind or deaf person, be the arms and legs of someone missing a limb, keep psychiatric patients calm, bring joy to hospitalized patients, and many other things. If you or someone you love has a disability, it might be worth looking into whether a service dog can provide help or increased independence. You can even train your own dog to be a service dog to help others!

Sources:

Web MD

The copyright of the article The Health Benefits of Owning a Pet in General Medicine is owned by Lisa Annunziato. Permission to republish The Health Benefits of Owning a Pet in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.