Studies have shown that pets provide physical health benefits, including:
- Lower cardiovascular risk – lower blood pressure, lower triglycerides and in men, lower cholesterol
- Increased exercise
- Stronger immune system
- Less GP visits and for kids, less days off school
Pets also have mental health benefits, such as:
- Kids with pet owners are more socially active and more empathetic
- Higher self-esteem and better outlook on life
- Less loneliness, restlessness and boredom during adolescence
- Less depression and better capacity to cope with grief, stress and loss
- Increased social connectedness
- Provides support during sickness
No wonder dogs are a man’s (woman’s) best friend!
References:
- rspca
- https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/health-benefits/index.html
- https://www.animalfriends.co.uk/blog/10-benefits-of-owning-a-pet/