Research shows that pets have many mental health benefits – including reducing stress, anxiety, and loneliness, and improving mood.
According to a survey by the Human Animal Relations Research Institute (HABRI), 74% of pet owners said owning a pet improves their mental health. Most pet owners know that petting your dog or cat is a quick way to relieve stress, but there’s a scientific explanation for how pets can help with anxiety. The presence of pets lowers the stress hormone cortisol, which can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Pets, especially dogs and cats, reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and relieve loneliness.
In addition to improving mental health, studies have shown that owning a pet can also have physical health benefits. Pet owners are more likely than non-owners to meet their daily exercise needs. Walking the dog, riding a horse, and chasing a kitten or rabbit are all ways that having a pet can help increase physical activity and encourage exercise and play, even improve cardiovascular health.
But beyond that, pets can be especially useful. If you are currently suffering from depression, the good news is there may be an animal companion that fits your lifestyle and needs. They are some of the best listeners in the world (they rarely answer or interrupt) and they never tire of spending time with you. In good times and bad, pets provide their owners with love and companionship.
Pets can also be valuable companions for seniors. Caring for a pet isn’t a chore — it’s a calming routine that helps people focus and organize their day. Caring for animals can help children grow up safer and more active. People of all ages find that having a pet can improve their mood, reduce stress, and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Perhaps most importantly, having a pet can bring real joy and unconditional love into your life.
