Stress Reduction
Pets have a remarkable ability to lower stress levels and studies back this up. Research shows that petting a dog or cat can significantly increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone linked to emotional bonding and stress relief, while also decreasing cortisol, the primary stress hormone.
A study conducted at the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, found that individuals who spent more than five minutes interacting with pets had lower stress levels and higher positive mood scores compared to those who interacted for five minutes or less.
The wagging tail, soothing purr, or calming presence of a fish tank can offer a scientifically proven way to combat daily stress and enhance overall mental well-being.
Mood Booster
Pets have a profound impact on our emotional well-being, consistently been shown to elevate mood and reduce feelings of depression. Interacting with pets can stimulate the release of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that play key roles in regulating mood and pleasure.
Studies, including those from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in a model adjusting for age, living situation (alone versus with others), mood, and seasonal residency, pet owners were found to have a 36% lower likelihood of reporting feelings of loneliness compared to those who do not own pets.
The unconditional love and companionship pets provide can offer comfort during challenging times and create a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Emotional Support
Dogs have been widely acknowledged as significant influencers in children’s emotional development due to their ability to understand human communicative signals. The emotional support that pets offer may be most impactful during childhood and early adolescence.
For individuals dealing with emotional challenges or mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, pets can serve as reliable sources of comfort and emotional stability. The bond formed with a pet can provide a sense of purpose and responsibility, fostering a positive outlook and improving overall emotional well-being.
Improved Physical Activity
According to the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, dog ownership is of public health importance because it has the potential to encourage physical activity (PA) and improve cardiovascular health outcomes.
Research indicates that owning a dog is linked to a reduced risk of mortality and cardiovascular issues, especially in single-person households, where individuals may feel more motivated to walk their dogs regularly.
Regular walks, playtime, and even activities like running or hiking with your pet not only keep them healthy but also help you stay fit. So, incorporating “active” pets into your daily routine can help you enjoy the benefits of increased physical activity– which leads to a healthier and more active life.
Improved Social Connection
Pets are natural icebreakers and can enhance social connections in various ways. Walking a dog, for instance, often leads to interactions with other pet owners and neighbors. This is where community bonds are created, and feelings of loneliness can be reduced.
Research published in the journal PLOS One suggests that pet ownership can provide social support, enhance empathy, and improve overall social well-being. Pets can also serve as conversation starters and companionship providers, particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with social interactions or feelings of isolation.
Another research study has also shown that children who grow up with companion animals tend to exhibit higher levels of self-esteem and often develop into more socially competent adults than those who do not have companion animals during childhood.
Immune System Support
Pet ownership has been linked to stronger immune systems, particularly in children. Infants who were exposed to high levels of pet or pest allergens indoors had a reduced risk of developing asthma by the age of 7.
There was a dose-response relationship observed, where fewer allergic conditions (such as asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, or eczema) were reported, with an increasing number of household cats and dogs during the first year of life.
Pets introduce a variety of microbes into the household environment, which may help to strengthen the immune system’s response to allergens and pathogens.
The emotional benefits of pet ownership, such as reduced stress and anxiety, can also indirectly support immune function by promoting overall well-being.
Cognitive Development in Children
Pets can improve cognitive development in children through various interactions and responsibilities. Caring for a pet, such as feeding, grooming, and training, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, fosters skills like responsibility, empathy, and problem-solving.
These activities encourage children to learn about animal behavior, health, and basic biology, promoting curiosity and intellectual growth. Additionally, pets can serve as motivational tools for learning and practicing routines, such as daily care tasks and obedience training.
A cohort study indicates that having a strongly bonded pet dog or cat over time is linked to a lower risk of mental health disorders in adolescents.
This article was written for WHN by Andre Oentoro who is the SEO consultant of Multimo, a furniture company specializing in stainless steel chairs and tables.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5645535/
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https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-16118-6
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0122085
https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/29867/cdc_29867_DS1.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6300190/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21195645/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9532803/
