Whether you’re feeling down or just need a friend, it’s often comforting to be hugged by a furry friend. Research is showing that pets provide a range of mental and physical health benefits, including improved social connections and lower stress levels. But before you run out to get a dog or cat, make sure your family is prepared for the responsibility that comes with pet ownership.
While most people are aware that a pet can help reduce anxiety, many don’t realize the many other ways it can improve your life. According to a new study by the National Institute of Mental Health, having a pet can also increase your feelings of connectedness and reduce your risk for heart disease.
Pets can teach children a variety of important life skills, including empathy and responsibility. They can give children a sense of purpose and provide a companion when they’re alone. They can also help them develop a positive self-image and learn to build healthy relationships. However, it’s essential to talk to your pediatrician before introducing a pet into your child’s life. A pet is typically a multiyear commitment, and it’s not recommended for children under 5.
A pet can help you feel more connected to your community, which is linked to better overall health. Researchers have found that people who feel more socially connected experience a reduction in health risks like depression and heart disease, as well as a better quality of life. As NIH explains, it’s not just the animals’ presence that offers this benefit; it’s the bond that forms with the pet.
Animals that are considered pets have a primarily social role in the household, as opposed to working or production animals. Almost any species can be considered a pet, but many animals bred for the sole purpose of being sold as a pet are subjected to unrelenting suffering. These include pigs, dogs and cats, as well as many other birds, fish, reptiles, rodents and exotic animals.
These animals are typically subjected to harsh breeding and shipping conditions, and their specialized needs can be difficult for most people to meet. Additionally, the majority of people who purchase these animals do not have the expertise or ability to care for them properly. In some cases, these pets are left to die of hunger, dehydration, exposure and illness. In other cases, they’re abandoned or killed by their owners because of the inability to meet their dietary and behavioral needs. This type of cruelty is unacceptable. Fortunately, there are many shelters and rescue groups across the country that help unwanted animals find loving homes.