


Playing with a dog, cat, or other pet can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, which calm and relax.One study even found that when people with borderline hypertension adopted dogs from a shelter, their blood pressure declined significantly within five months. People with pets have lower blood pressure in stressful situations than those without pets.Pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets.Even watching fish in an aquarium can help reduce muscle tension and lower your pulse rate. Snakes, lizards, and other reptiles can make for exotic companions. Birds can encourage social interaction and help keep your mind sharp if you’re an older adult. A rabbit could be ideal if you’re allergic to other animals or have limited space but still want a furry friend to snuggle with. While it’s true that people with pets often experience greater health benefits than those without, a pet doesn’t necessarily have to be a dog or a cat. Perhaps most importantly, though, a pet can add real joy and unconditional love to your life. Pets also provide valuable companionship for older adults. Caring for an animal can help children grow up more secure and active. Pets, especially dogs and cats, can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve your cardiovascular health. And like any good human friend, a loyal dog will look into your eyes to gauge your emotional state and try to understand what you’re thinking and feeling (and to work out when the next walk or treat might be coming, of course). Dogs, for example, are able to understand many of the words we use, but they’re even better at interpreting our tone of voice, body language, and gestures. Pets have evolved to become acutely attuned to humans and our behavior and emotions. It’s only recently that studies have begun to scientifically explore the benefits of the human-animal bond. However, many of us remain unaware of the physical and mental health benefits that can also accompany the pleasure of snuggling up to a furry friend.

Most pet owners are clear about the immediate joys that come with sharing their lives with companion animals. Here’s how caring for a dog, cat, or other animal can help relieve depression and anxiety, lower stress, and improve your heart health. Pets The Health and Mood-Boosting Benefits of Pets Pets come with some powerful health benefits.
