10 Least Known Health Benefits Of Adopting A Pet

Each year, over one million adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized simply because too many pets end up in shelters and too few people consider adoption when looking for a pet. Shelters take in millions of abused, stray, and lost animals annually, and by adopting one, you create space for others. Your adoption not only offers more animals a second chance but also helps shelters cover the cost of caring for the animals they receive.

Pets don't just offer unconditional love; they also provide psychological, emotional, and physical benefits. Being a pet parent can give you a sense of purpose, reduce loneliness, and increase fulfillment. Remember, when you adopt, you're helping an animal in need.

Adopting a pet has several health benefits. While owning a pet can require significant work, research shows it may also improve your well-being. However, most studies on the effects of pets on human health are observational, indicating a correlation rather than a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

Pets encourage physical activity, outdoor time, and social interaction. Regularly walking or playing with pets can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Additionally, companion animals can provide comfort in times of loneliness and help alleviate depression.

# May Enhance Mental Health

Social and emotional bonds with pets can have a positive impact on mood and overall health. Observational studies suggest that pets can provide comfort to individuals with mental health issues. Research has shown that dog ownership benefits veterans with PTSD, and overall, pet ownership is linked to increased emotional stability and a sense of meaning and purpose.

# Can Boost Feel-Good Hormones

Petting your furry companions can lead to hormonal benefits. Studies show that petting animals increases oxytocin levels, the "feel-good" hormone, while lowering cortisol, the stress hormone. It may also promote the release of endorphins, which can reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, loneliness, and social isolation.

# Supports Childhood Development

Emotional development in children is crucial for their growth into healthy adults, and pets can play a key role in this. Particularly for children with developmental challenges like ADHD, pets can help them focus with the stability of a routine. For children with autism, petting an animal can be calming, and interacting with pets often enhances their social skills. Whether it's a cat, dog, or guinea pig, pets can support children's emotional growth.

# Can Alleviate Loneliness

While scientific studies on this are still limited, many pet owners report that their pets help them feel less lonely. In fact, a survey found that 80% of pet owners believe their pets reduce feelings of loneliness.

# Encourages Physical Activity

Daily walks are crucial for maintaining the health and happiness of dogs. These walks increase opportunities for exercise, fresh air, and social interaction. Additionally, walking or playing with a pet can lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Even cats can benefit from physical activity if leash-trained for outdoor walks.

# Beneficial for the Elderly

Research indicates that Alzheimer's patients experience fewer anxious outbursts when living with pets. Pets also provide support to caregivers, especially cats, which typically require less care than dogs.

# Good for Heart Health

Several studies have demonstrated that heart attack survivors with pets tend to live longer than those without. Additionally, pet owners generally have fewer signs of heart disease, as well as lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels compared to non-pet owners.

# Helps Lower Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

The CDC reports that pets can help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, particularly in individuals with hypertension or high cholesterol. Studies suggest that cat owners, in particular, have a 30% lower risk of heart attacks and a 40% lower risk of strokes.

# Boosts Immunity and Prevents Allergies

Children who grow up in homes with dogs may experience a boost to their immune systems and a reduced risk of allergies. Research has shown that having a pet in the home can lower a child's likelihood of developing allergies by 33%. Additionally, pet dander may act as a natural form of immunotherapy for young children.

# Can Detect Early Signs of Cancer

Dogs have an exceptional sense of smell, and some have been known to detect cancer in their owners. There have been reports of dogs alerting their owners to hidden tumors by pawing, sniffing, or even licking the affected area, potentially saving lives.

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