How Your Health and Your Pets are Related

How Pets Improve Your Mental Health - Guest Blog
 
Have you ever wondered why people who live alone usually keep pets? Studies have shown that people who keep pets are happier, healthier, and more fit than those who do not. Aside from that, pets often seek to comfort their owners when they are unhappy. Cats and dogs, especially, seem to have an almost empathic link and can tell what kind of mood you are in. Most pet owners report that they have a close bond with their pets. In fact, people who own pets are less likely to be depressed or suffer from other mental health issues.

Mental: It Starts With Physical

Recently, more people have found that depression can be avoided through being more active, prompting scientists to come to the conclusion that your brain’s fitness is influenced by your body’s health. Oddly enough, this has been known for years by most doctors.

Walking a dog twice a day is great for both of you and activity reduces your risk for depression. For an added feel-good bonus, adopt a shelter dog. Not only will you have a great exercise buddy but you will feel better knowing you may have saved that animal from death.

Hormones: Nature’s Prozac

Cuddling and otherwise bonding with your pet has been known to release oxytocin, otherwise called the “love” hormone. Usually linked with loving gestures, oxytocin gives your brain a boost similar to the effects of medicinal antidepressants, without the chemicals. Pets will never yell at you or make you feel bad about yourself, as long as you take care of them.

Doctors often claim pets can help prevent suicide, since taking care of an animal can give someone a sense of purpose. Even simply rubbing an animal’s fur can help some to feel better. Animal therapy is often recommended for depressed patients and special education children.

What Health Problems?

Allergies can create much mental anguish. Growing up with pets can help reduce the chance of allergies and promote responsibility, better stress management, and even help them avoid anxiety disorders. Research has shown that pets can help ease anxiety in people with memory loss and other severe mental disorders such as Alzheimer’s. In fact, some health insurance companies ask elderly people if they have a pet as part of their screening process.

Properly trained, pets are loving companions that become almost like children for some. Even cages pets such as rodents and lizards have healthy benefits. They depend on their owners for food, shelter, and love, and give that love right back. Of course, it might just be that little creature looks so adorable you cannot help but to feel happier.

 
Erica Simone currently writes for Viamedic’s site, an online facilitator for Viagra, Cialis and Levitra online.  Erica has an extensive background in health and wellness and enjoys offering her tips on the Viamedic Health Blog.