Introduction: There is a reason we call our pets "best friends". Not only do they bring joy, love, and companionship into our lives, but they also offer a plethora of health benefits that can improve our well-being in unexpected ways. Owning pets can improve our physical, emotional and mental health. They reduce stress, anxiety, and even boost our immune systems. This listicle will explore the surprising ways in which owning a dog can make you healthier and happier.
Improve Mood
Owning a pet can also have a positive impact on our mood. Whether it's playing with a cat or going for a walk with a dog, spending time with our pets can promote feelings of happiness and joy. It's because pet releases oxytocin (also known as "love hormone"), which can improve your mood and overall well-being.
Provide Companionship
A pet's companionship is perhaps the biggest benefit of having one. Our pets are there to help us when we need them, whether it's because we have a bad day or just want someone to talk to. This is especially helpful for older adults who are feeling lonely or isolated.
Lower Risk of Stroke
It's true, having a pet lowers your risk of stroke. According to the American Heart Association's study, owning pets can reduce your risk of stroke up to 40%. Pets can lower blood pressure and stress levels, as well as promote physical activity.
Improve Heart Health
Owning a pet can also have a positive impact on your heart health. According to American Heart Association, having a pet lowers your risk of developing heart disease. Regularly walking your dog can improve your cardiovascular health.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Pets reduce stress and anxiety among their owners. Petting a cat, or even a dog, can release endorphins that promote relaxation and calmness. According to a National Institutes of Health study, owning a dog or cat can improve mental health. It also reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Improve Memory
The memory can be improved by owning a pet. According to a University of Liverpool study, pet owners older than 50 years performed better on memory test than non-pet owner. Pets provide mental stimulation that can help to keep our minds active and engaged.
Lower Blood Flow
Did you also know that having a companion animal can lower your high blood pressure level? According to a recent study by the American Heart Association petting your dog can help calm you down, which in turn can reduce your blood pressure. This is especially beneficial for older adults who may be at risk for high blood pressure.
Improve Self-Esteem
Pets can also improve our self-esteem and self-worth. We can feel proud of ourselves for taking care of our pet, and this can increase our self-esteem. Pets can also offer unconditional acceptance and loving care, helping us feel secure about who we are.
Reduce Pain
It has been proven that pets can positively impact pain management. This is especially true for people with chronic pain. According to the National Institutes of Health, pet therapy can help reduce pain, improve mood, and decrease the need for pain medication.
Boost Immune System
Owning a dog or cat can boost your immunity. The studies have shown that kids who grow up around pets are less prone to allergies and asthma. Pets also introduce us to different bacteria and germs which help to strengthen our immune system.
Increase Socialization
A pet can be a good way to socialize, especially for those that have a hard time meeting new friends. You can build relationships by taking your dog on walks, going to pet-related events or talking with other pet owners.
Owning a pet has a positive impact on your health and happiness. Pets provide many benefits for our health and well-being. Take the time to choose the perfect pet for your lifestyle and yourself if you are considering a new pet. The love and companionship of a pet is priceless, whether it's a cat or dog.
The Most Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of pet is best for someone with allergies?
Consider getting a hypoallergenic cat or dog if you suffer from allergies. These breeds have less dander that can be more tolerable for people who suffer from allergies.
How can I be sure that my dog is getting enough activity?
Make sure to set aside some time each day for you pet to get exercise. This could be a short walk or even playing with toys. Additionally, consider hiring a dog walker or pet sitter to help ensure your pet is getting enough physical activity.
How can I keep my pet from damaging my furniture?
To help keep your furniture safe, provide your pet with a variety of toys and scratching post to divert their attention. Consider using deterrent sprays or covers to protect your furniture from damage.
What should I be doing if my dog is showing signs or aggression?
Ask for help from a professional behaviorist or trainer if your pet shows signs of aggression. Additionally, you should take precautions to ensure that your pet and yourself are safe.
How can I introduce other pets or humans to my pet?
Take time introducing your pet to other pets or people, and supervise all interactions. Treats and praise are good ways to encourage your pet to feel comfortable in new situations.
FAQ
What is pet insurance?
Pet Insurance provides financial protection for pets when they are sick or injured. It also covers routine veterinary services such as microchipping, spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and other preventive care.
Additionally, the policy covers emergency treatment for pets that are injured or become ill.
There are two types to pet insurance
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Catastrophic - This type of insurance pays for medical expenses if your cat suffers serious injuries.
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Non-catastrophic - This type covers routine veterinary costs, including vaccines, microchips, and spays/neuters.
Some companies offer both non-catastrophic and catastrophic coverage. Some companies offer only one type of coverage.
These costs will be covered by a monthly premium. The amount will vary depending on how much money you spend on pet care.
This insurance will cost you differently depending on the company that you choose. It is a good idea to shop around before making your purchase.
You may be eligible for discounts if more than one policy is purchased by the company.
You can transfer an existing pet plan from one company to another if you have it.
If you choose not to purchase any pet insurance, you will need to make all payments yourself.
You can still save money. You can ask your veterinarian about discounts.
If you take your pet to the vet often, he might not be impressed.
Another option is to adopt a pet from a local shelter instead of buying one.
You must always read the fine print, regardless of what type of insurance policy you purchase.
It will let you know exactly how much your coverage is worth. Contact the insurer immediately if you are unsure.
What should I do if my dog bites someone?
You should first check that the animal you are being attacked is not rabid. If this is impossible, you can call for help. You could be seriously hurt if you try to manage the situation yourself.
If the animal does bite but is not aggressive, you should take it to the veterinary clinic. Your vet will inspect it and determine if further treatment is necessary.
Rabies shots are usually required in most cases. You should never administer them yourself. Only a qualified person should do so.
How much should I pay for a pet?
A good rule of thumb is to budget around $200-$300 per month.
This will vary depending on where you live. You would spend $350 per Month in New York City.
In rural areas, however you may only need $100 per calendar month.
It's important to remember that you should buy quality items such as a collar, leash, toys, etc.
A crate is a great investment for your pet. This will keep your pet safe when he is being transported.
What age is it safe to have a pet as a child?
Children under five years old shouldn't have a pet. Young children are not advised to have pets such as cats or dogs.
Most kids who have pets end up being bitten by them. This is particularly true for small dogs.
Some breeds of dog, such as pit bulls, can be aggressive towards other animals.
Even though a dog might seem friendly, it doesn't mean it won't attack another animal.
Make sure your dog is well-trained if it's your decision to buy a dog. You should also supervise your child when she is playing with the dog.
Do I need to spay/neuter my pet dog?
Yes! It is vital to spay/neuter your dog.
It reduces the number of unwanted dogs in the world and also lowers the chance of developing certain diseases.
In female dogs, the chance of developing breast cancer is higher than it is in male dogs.
Males are at greater risk for testicular cancer than their female counterparts.
Spaying and neutering your pet also prevents her from having babies.
What should I do before buying an exotic animal?
Before you purchase an exotic pet, you should think about these things. You must decide whether you plan to keep the animal or sell it. If you want to keep it as an animal pet, you need to ensure that there is enough space. You should also know how much you plan to spend on the animal's care. It is not easy to care for an animal. However, they provide great companionship.
If you are looking to sell your animal, you will need to find someone willing to buy it. You should ensure that the person who buys your animal is knowledgeable about how to care for animals. It is important to not overfeed your animal. This could cause problems for your animal's health later.
If you are considering exotic pets, you should ensure that you thoroughly research them. Many websites provide information about various types of pets. You should be careful not to fall for any scams.
How often should I groom my dog?
Grooming your dog is important. It will keep your dog's coat healthy and clean.
Dogs should be brushed twice per week. After every meal, brush your dog.
The best way to remove dirt and hair from your dog is to brush his fur. Brushing your dog's teeth will make him look more healthy.
Brushing his ears regularly will prevent ear infections.
Statistics
- Reimbursement rates vary by insurer, but common rates range from 60% to 100% of your veterinary bill. (usnews.com)
- For example, if your policy has a 90% reimbursement rate and you've already met your deductible, your insurer would pay you 90% of the amount you paid the vet, as long as you're still below the coverage limits of your policy. (usnews.com)
- * Monthly costs are for a 1-year-old female mixed-breed dog and a male domestic shorthair cat less than a year old, respectively, in excellent health residing in Texas, with a $500 annual deductible, $5,000 annual benefit limit, and 90% reimbursement rate. (usnews.com)
- It's among a relatively few companies that provide policies with a full (100%) coverage option, meaning you are not responsible for any co-payment of bills. (money.com)
- A 5% affiliation discount may apply to individuals who belong to select military, law enforcement, and service animal training organizations that have a relationship with Nationwide. (usnews.com)
External Links
How To
How to choose the perfect name for your pet
When you are considering adopting a pet into your family, it is one the most crucial decisions you will make. Names should reflect the personality and character of your pet.
You need to think about how others may refer to you. You should also consider how you would like to be called. Are you more comfortable calling yourself "dog" or your "pet"?
Here are some tips to help you get started:
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You should choose a name that suits your dog's breed. Look up the names of the breeds if you know the breed (e.g. Labradoodle). Ask someone who is familiar with dogs to recommend a name that fits the breed.
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Think about the meaning of the name. Some breeds are named for people or places, others are nicknames. A Labrador Retriever, for example, was given the name "Rover" as he was always running around.
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Think about how you'd like to be called. Do you prefer to be called "dog?" or "pet?" Do you prefer to call your dog "Puppy", or "Buddy?"
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Include the first name of the owner. It is a smart idea to give your dog a name that includes both your first and last names. However, it doesn't mean you should limit yourself to just including the names of family members. Your dog might grow up to be a member your family.
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Be aware that many pets have multiple names. A cat may have many names, depending on where she is located. At home, she could be called "Kitty Cat", but when visiting friends, "Molly". This is especially true if the cat lives outside. They will often adapt their names to match their environment.
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Be creative There are no rules stating that you have to stick to one naming convention. Be unique and memorable in your choice.
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Check to make sure your chosen name hasn't been used by someone else or a group. So you don't accidentally steal someone's identity.
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Don't forget that choosing a name is not an exact science. Sometimes it takes time to determine whether a name is right for your dog. Keep trying until you find the right name!