We all identify pets as our companions during hard times, our friends whenever we need them or when we are feeling down and blue. #Pets come in all sizes and shapes, and it could be a cat, dog, fish, or even those exotic animals which are unheard of to become a Pet. It doesn't matter in what shape your pet might be, but what is important is the fact that you are having a lot of fun being with your pet.
For those who haven't tried owning a pet yet, you may not have felt the feeling of what it's like having one but don't worry, and it's not too late to adopt one now.
Don't put yourself into thinking that having a pet could only cause trouble for you because I tell it's not.
In fact, there are physical, emotional, and mental Benefits of having a pet.
Physical benefits
- Lowers your heart rate, Blood Pressure, as well as the risk of acquiring any cardiac diseases. In a 20-year study, people who never owned a cat were 40% more likely to die of a heart attack than those who had. Another study found that dog owners had a better survival rate one year after a heart attack. It doesn't end there, as studies indicate that playing with your pets and even petting them can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. In one study, stockbrokers with high blood pressure who adopted a cat or dog had lower blood pressure readings in stressful situations than did people without pets.
- Makes you physically fit. This is more for individuals who own dogs, as dog-owners walk them, play with them, and this could result to you being physically fit. Pets are known to help you become active rather than other passive activities you do on your spare time.
Mental and emotional benefits
- Lessens anxiety and stress level. These benefits don't limit itself to selected people, according to Lynette Hart, Ph.D., associate professor at the University of California at Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, "Studies have shown that Alzheimer's patients have fewer anxious outbursts if there is an animal in the home.Their caregivers also feel less burdened when there is a pet, particularly if it is a cat, which generally requires less care than a dog."
- Reduces depression. People who have a hard time talking to someone else and asking for help can instead opt to adopt or own a pet. Pets are known for being good listeners; there has been a significant increase of happiness level in owning pets according to a research study conducted with a group of pet owners.
- Makes you happy. Just by being with your pets boosts your mood by releasing happy mood hormones in your brain called serotonin. This is the same as taking drugs that make you feel ecstatic and happy, but instead, it's legal and free.
As a bonus, pets could help you to connect more with other people.
One of a great conversation starter is asking about what type of breed your dog is, and the conversation will flow on naturally. This especially helps ease people out of social isolation or shyness according to, Nadine Kaslow, Ph.D., professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Emory University in Atlanta.
There are more benefits to what a pet could do your life, in fact, it is an endless list, and you will know for yourself as you go along the way of being with your pet.
There are also great articles and studies which could help you find out more about owning a pet. Here is a great quote from Anatole France to help you get started, "Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains suppressed."
