During the pandemic, we saw the animal shelters empty out — such wonderful news! So many individuals found themselves isolated, lonely, or with a lot more free time as they worked from home, enabling them to care for an animal. People rescued these animals and gave them forever homes. Those pets were lucky, but so were their owners! Turns out there are some measurable perks of owning a pet.
When it comes to bringing a four-legged family member home, the benefits go beyond just being a cute, cuddly companion. If you’re a current pet owner or thinking about getting a furry friend in the future, listen to all the benefits that you could reap.
Improved blood pressure
Giving your animal belly rubs and head scratches certainly makes them happy, but it’s benefiting you, too. A study showed that children who pet their dogs had lower blood pressure and lower heart rates compared to those who didn’t have a pet.
Lower cholesterol
People with pets typically have better levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. Researchers are not exactly sure why that is, but it probably has to do with the fact you have to be active when you have a pet. Think: long walks if you have a dog.
Improved immune system
Pets spend a lot of time outside and they bring dirt and germs into your home. That might not sound ideal, but these additional germs improve your immune system, helping you fight colds and illnesses. Researches say, “Studies have shown that babies who live with a dog tend to experience fewer infections and are generally healthier than those who don’t.”
Boosted mood
Whether you have a dog, cat, or fish, by spending a few minutes with them, you will feel less stress. Cortisol (the stress hormone) decreases and serotonin (the feel-good chemical) rises, which will impact your overall mood. In short, owning a pet can make you feel better.
Depression and anxiety support
Your pet will listen to you for as long as you’d like. They provide unconditional love and support. Owning a pet gives purpose since you have to take care of it. You need to walk it, take it to the vet, play with it, feed it, and bathe it. Sometimes having this purpose and routine helps when you’re in a state of depression or anxiety.
While owning a pet brings you these benefits, it’s important to remember that pets are a commitment. They will require time and effort. Please make sure you are ready to bring a pet into your home and take care of it for the entirety of its life. And if you believe you’re ready, consider rescuing whenever possible — there are so many wonderful pets in shelters looking for a loving home!
