The Hidden Benefits of Owning Pets
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As pet owners, most of us derive joy and laughter from our pets’ adorable expressions and antics. However, more than just providing those snippets of happiness, our furry companions also do wonders for our mental and physical health. Read on to find out how important a pet’s role is in our lives!
Lower levels of stress and anxiety
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As we live in a fast-paced and hectic society, we may be constantly loaded with worries and experience increased levels of stress and anxiety. However, studies have shown that pet owners tend to have lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in comparison to those who do not own a pet. This is because the amusement from their daily antics and the comfort they provide by just being by our side can often be the perfect antidote to our everyday stresses.
Provision of emotional support
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In the same vein as keeping us calm when we feel overwhelmed, pets help us combat our feelings of loneliness through the companionship that they provide. Whether is it their enthusiasm in greeting you when you return home, or their attempts to get your attention by snuggling next to you, these actions make us feel wanted and loved, which can decrease the likelihood of depression.
The emotional support pets provide is especially imperative to children with learning difficulties, who may find it less stressful to learn to communicate with pets first before interacting with people. Given that children with autism rely on nonverbal cues to communicate, this similarity to pets is effective in assisting them in developing social and communication skills.
Keeps you fit
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Though this will mostly apply to dog owners, those who often exercise with their pet may also share this benefit. Whether it’s a pet dog, bird, or cat, bringing it out on regular walks (responsibly; use a leash if necessary) is beneficial to our own physical health as well. Even a simple game of fetch or tug-of-war indoors also gets your body moving, which is important for our increasingly sedentary lifestyles.
While these are all good reasons that can encourage you to get a new addition to your family, what matters most in your decision-making process should ultimately be your capabilities to shoulder the responsibilities of taking care of a new furry friend. After all, it is only when you are able to shower your pet with unconditional love and care will you be able to reap these hidden benefits from their companionship!
