Why Pets are Great for Everybody’s Health

Owning a pet can increase your longevity and the quality of your life and provides emotional support. When you have a pet, it reduces the effects of social isolation and may help to reduce depression and anxiety.

People who spend most of their time at home, for example the elderly, will often benefit from caring for a pet. People with Alzheimer’s can find petting a therapy animal is calming, reviving happy memories of pets owned previously. Older adults frequently see their social circles shrink and playing and caring for a pet can give them the emotional connection that is otherwise lacking.

While cats are often independent, dogs need regular feeding and exercise schedules. They are great for helping you to live in the moment because a dog doesn’t care what you look like or what happened yesterday or may happen tomorrow, they just know they want a walk or a meal right now. Regular dog walkers will often get to know other dog owners and the exercise is always beneficial.

Children can benefit tremendously from owning a pet, teaching them responsibility about caring for a pet, which in turn can help kids form better friendships with other people. Pets can calm hyperactive or aggressive children and help children with autism or learning disabilities. The companionship of a pet can improve self-confidence and can stimulate the imagination.