Pets are loving, playful, and comforting. They bring immediate joy into the lives of their owners, but the benefits don’t stop there. While they can make the best human companions, pets also improve the well-being of their owners.
Debra Decaro explains more below about the mood boosting benefits of pets.
Increased Exercise
Pets are a commitment, especially when it comes to dogs. When nature calls, dogs need to be taken outside, encouraging pet owners to take them for a walk. This can mean getting exercise that perhaps the owner wouldn’t have gotten otherwise.
Pets also need a way to play and release energy. Whether it’s going for a walk, playing fetch, or hiking, dog owners are squeezing daily exercise into their schedules.
Along with increased exercise, the increase of vitamin D, they’re building the connection between themselves and their furry friend.
Reduced Anxiety
Pets live in the moment. They’re not worried about tomorrow or stressing over past events. Their happy personality allows them to offer pet owners comfort and can be a sounding board or stress reliver for those in a stressful career.
For decades, people who struggle with anxiety or depression have utilized pets as emotional support animals. These furry friends can sense when something is wrong and provide reassurance to their owners. The joy a pet brings is truly unmatched.
Provides Companionship
People who live alone can tend to feel lonely at times. Having a pet reduces the feelings of loneliness and can reduce the risk of depressive episodes. Animals can provide companionship and have even been shown to add years to a person’s life.
Caring for an animal is an important responsibility, but is rewarded by the companionship, comfort, contentment, and purpose that owning a pet provides.
Provides Purpose and Responsibility
Caring for an animal can help with teaching responsibility, especially in young children. Children tend to be more motivated, positive, accountable, and appreciative in caring for a pet.
Adds Structure and Routine
Pets need regular feedings, exercise, and interaction. Pets need to exert energy to stay calm and healthy, much like people. Having a routine of pet-care responsibilities helps owners maintain a schedule that can be healthy for them as well.
Helps Owners Socialize
Dogs makes it easier to meet people and build friendships. Think about it — when dogs encounter other dogs, it opens the door for conversation among the pet owners.
This can happen unintentionally. These furry animals make socializing easier for people with social anxiety. What an easy ice-breaker – just talk about your dog!
In Conclusion
Whether it’s a dog, cat, or rabbit, or otherwise, pets are excellent companions and can help improve the mood and health of their owners. Yet another reason to adopt an animal!