Pets provide years of unconditional love, loyalty, and companionship. Did you know that owning a pet can also improve your personal health? There are multiple ways that pets are good for us, both physically and mentally! Learn more below from your veterinarian.

Lowered Stress Levels

Did you know that people who own pets tend to be less stressed than those who don’t? This may be because of pets’ unique capacity for constant, unwavering companionship—the value of having a loving companion to come home to on a daily basis should not be underestimated! A gentle nudge or loving bark from your animal companion can make all the difference during a difficult day.

Great Exercise

For many, owning a pet means that they’re getting regular exercise. This is especially true for dog owners, although some cats can go for walks outdoors as well. (Always be sure to use a specialized feline harness and leash!) Walking and playing with your pet doesn’t just keep your animal friend fit—it helps you burn calories and stay physically active on a regular basis.

Improved Heart Health

Studies have demonstrated that pet owners tend to have better heart health than those who don’t own an animal companion. This is likely due to a combination of the above factors of lowered stress and regular exercise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention even list lowered blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels as some of the health benefits of owning a pet! Plus, people who have already suffered a heart attack tend to live longer if they own a pet, compared to heart-attack survivors who don’t own pets.

Better Mood

Let’s face it: playing or relaxing with a furry friend simply tends to put you in a better mood. Spending time with animal companions can lead to the release of serotonin and dopamine, chemicals in the brain that cause feelings of pleasure. Our pets can quite literally put us in a better frame of mind!

Increased Socialization

People who own pets tend to be less lonely—not just because they have an animal companion by their side, but because of the opportunities that pet ownership provides to meet and talk with other people. Pets can be particularly helpful for extremely shy individuals or for those who live alone. Want to know more about the many wonderful ways pets can improve your health? Contact your vet clinic today!