The Power of Pets

Rate This

There is nothing like owning a pet to improve both physical and mental health. While dogs and cats are probably the most popular choice, pets of any kind - including birds, fish, reptiles, rodents, amphibians and insects - can add to a person’s quality of life.

Animals offer unconditional love, they never judge, they won’t boss you around, they don’t lie and they’re always there for you. Numerous studies have proved that owning a pet helps to ward off depression, boost the immune system, reduce stress, extend life, lower blood pressure and anxiety, calm aggression and relieve loneliness. And when someone has suffered a great loss, a new little friend can teach them to love again.

These furry, slimy, fuzzy, or feathery creatures can give people a new sense of purpose by being a loyal companion, and studies show that pet owners tend to socialize more than those without pets. Animals are also used in many therapeutic programs that help elderly and special needs or traumatized children.

Most children benefit from the connection they make with a pet at a young age. In many cases having a pet helps a child’s system to adapt making him or her less likely to suffer from pet allergies.

Check out these websites to learn more about why adopting a pet is a good idea.

http://www.secondchanceforanimals.org/benefits_of_pet_ownership.htm

http://www.holisticonline.com/Pets/pets_pet-therapy-benefits-of-pets.htm

http://health.discovery.com/centers/aging/powerofpets/powerofpets.html

Add a CommentComments

There are no comments yet. Be the first one and get the conversation started!

Teri Borseti View Profile Send Message

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.