There are few things better than coming home from a stressful day to an excited dog or cat. Whether you’re at your best or feeling your absolute worst, pets always remain right by your side.
Most pet owners consider their furry friend to be another member of the family, and they can provide owners with lots of other benefits. Here are a few:
1. Relieves Stress
Animals, particularly dogs, are often used to help individuals manage high stress levels. They have started bringing dogs into work places to help relieve stress. Universities have dogs on campus especially during finals and Veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxious children are other groups that experience less stress in the presence of a dog.
2. Encourages Physical Activity and Being Outdoors
Whether it’s running, throwing a ball, or simply walking, dogs encourage owners to get outside and move. A study from the American Heart Association found that dogs help their owners stay active by more than 50%.
Sometimes I’m annoyed when it’s my turn to walk the dogs, but it never fails, once I’m out there I am glad to get the fresh air and vitamin D!
3. Improves Emotional Health
This is my favorite benefit. Pets just make you happy…plain and simple. That’s why you can find ‘cat and dog cafe’s’ all over the country now. People want to be with animals because it makes them happier. The same goes for goat yoga. This trend has been catching on, and it’s even getting people to try yoga when they may not have.
Moods are directly affected by pets. Have you ever participated in pet therapy at a hospital or nursing home? It’s quite amazing. Patients are instantly impacted.
Give your pet an extra snuggle today, and if you don’t have one, borrow a neighbors!
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