Nothing brings a smile to our face like seeing the exuberant joy of our tail-wagging four-legged friend the moment we return home. In an instant, all the day’s stress and fatigue are wiped away by the loving greeting of the family dog, cat, or any creature we call our beloved pet. Because their world revolves around us, they remind us daily of their unconditional love—something we can count on in good times as well as during the challenging chapters of our lives.
Our Pets Promote Emotional Wellbeing
Anyone faced with a serious setback in life—the loss of a loved one, a job loss, a divorce, a health scare—knows how utterly distraught they may find themselves in its aftermath. Stress, grief, and anxiety are powerful emotions that can potentially contribute to a serious health problem.
But the unconditional love of the family dog or cat, lying by your side and soothing your broken spirit, can provide a sort of buffer against these negative responses. The companionship and acceptance provided by your furry friend has the power to lift your mood and get you through the rough patch.
In fact, there are actual neurochemical changes that take place in our blood after interacting with our pet. These include changes in cortisol, oxytocin, prolactin, and serotonin levels, as documented in a study conducted at the University of Missouri’s Center for the Study of Animal Wellness by Rebecca A. Johnson, Ph.D. Dr. Johnson found a reciprocal relationship between dogs and their humans; that both the human and the dog exhibited positive health effects resulting from their bond.
Another aspect of emotional wellbeing gained from having a pet is a sense of safety. While a tank full of fish may not provide much protection, a dog certainly can. Even a small dog with a loud bark can provide us with a feeling of security, which reduces stress.
Our Pets Keep Us Healthy
Much research has been conducted on the connection between dog ownership specifically, and improved wellbeing. A study published in the British Journal of Health Psychology, authored by Dr. Deborah Wells, identified the various health benefits of owning a dog.
The data show a direct correlation between dog ownership and lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and fewer serious health afflictions. In addition, Wells’ research found that in dog owners who had suffered a heart attack there was an 8.6 percent higher one-year survival rate over the cardiac patients who did not own a dog.
Wells cites a number of reasons for the increased health benefits among dog owners. In addition to the obvious physical health benefits associated with regular exercise attributed to daily dog walks, she also noted, as did Dr. Johnson, a number of psychological benefits. She acknowledges the bond between human and dog is very powerful and can have an overall positive impact on both physical and mental health.
Pet Ownership Connects Us to Positivity
Let’s face it; life is not always easy. Having a faithful pet along to accompany us on life’s journey can help prevent loneliness, and can also be a daily source of positive energy. Just the sight of our cherished pet can instantly fill us with pure happiness, while caring for them gives us a sense of purpose beyond only caring for ourselves.
The physical and mental health benefits associated with pet ownership clearly contribute to the positive wellbeing of both humans and their faithful companions. I can’t think of a better reason to go check out the local animal shelter.
