Man first started domesticating and keeping pets for assistance in hunting and security. While there are many who still raise dogs for those purposes, more are kept as pets for companionship. Whether you keep a dog, cat, bird or any other animal as a pet you get a number of health rewards in addition to their company. Studies have been conducted by universities, the CDC, and animal advocacy groups to indicate that with the right pet choice we can live longer and happier lives.
The bond between an owner and their pet can be intense and gives many psychological benefits. It's hard to be depressed when you have a cat snuggled up in your lap or a dog that can't stop wagging its tail just because you are there. Unconditional love is nothing to be sneezed at, unless allergies cause you to consider a different kind of pet. You do need to consider the time, attention and activity level you will be able to provide to any pet you get.
I have a friend that volunteers at the local humane society. She can't have a pet where she is living but still gets the benefits and fulfillment of caring for the animals there. People that are in nursing homes report feeling less lonely when visited by service dogs. Patients in mental health facilities have benefited from the incorporation of animals in their treatment programs since 1792!
Pets can help control your blood pressure through stress reduction better than some drugs. A study of stockbrokers suffering from hypertension showed that the group owning cats and dogs lowered their blood pressure more than the group that had no pets. Both groups were taking medication for high blood pressure - the only difference was the pets. So guess who went out and got pets as soon as possible.
Owning a dog can cause you to get out and exercise. Whether it is taking them for a walk or throwing them a coconut, you end up exercising more. My dog really does play fetch with coconuts, I think she may be in training to try out for a football team. Throwing that coconut gives my arm quite a workout.
Taking her for a walk with our other dog becomes a race for who will finish first. An added benefit is the socialize with the neighbors and other people we meet. This added socialization has great stress management benefits. Getting out and walking also improves your mood. The mental and emotional benefits are equal to the physical benefits of walking.
Pets offer unconditional love, companionship and don't seem to mind those long comfortable silences. You can tell your secrets to your pet without worrying that they will tell the very next person they see - unless you own a parrot that can't help themself! The care and grooming of a pet can be therapeutic. I get a sense of fulfillment and positive reinforcement after the girls both get a bath. My older dog knows she is going to get a full body massage and doesn't mind the water because she knows what comes afterwards.
While there are some health problems associated with pet ownership, especially allergies, overall people have better health and happier lives having a pet. I know I couldn't imagine not having a pet. Besides my two girls, I also have three cats, they just happen to be camera shy. But the snuggling and purring can make any bad day so much better. Think about what you want from a pet and what you can give a pet. Pick out the one that fits your lifestyle and start reaping the benefits of a beautiful new friendship.
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