With the growing recognition that well-being extends beyond physical health to include social, emotional, financial and environmental dimensions, it’s ideal when you find activities or situations that tackle multiple dimensions of well-being at the same time. Having a pet is a great way to do just that.Owning a pet offers tremendous intrinsic and extrinsic advantages, regardless of one’s age. Maybe that’s why 65 percent of households in the United States already have one. Pet ownership gives us a reason to exercise, provides companionship and greatly influences our happiness—as well as our health.
Here are six ways that owning a pet is good for your health and well-being:
Lower stress, better health
If you’ve ever owned a pet, you already know how much joy and affection they can bring to your life. Numerous studies confirm that pet owners enjoy a wealth of positive impacts, including:
- Lower stress levels
- Improved cardiovascular health
- An enhanced sense of well-being
- Fewer allergic sensitivities
- Lower rates of obesity
- Reduced stress and depression rates
- And many other physical and emotional benefits
Improved heart health
Pet ownership, particularly dog ownership, reduces health risks, including cardiovascular disease. In fact, studies show owning a cat or dog increases your chances of surviving a heart attack. Even the simple act of petting a dog or a cat can lower your blood pressure.
A boost in physical activity
Chances are you get more physical activity if you have a dog. Compared to non-dog owners, the odds of getting at least 150 minutes per week of total walking were 34 percent higher for dog walkers. Taking your dog for a walk or run—or even playing a quick game of catch—adds daily bursts of activity into your day. The physical activity is great for both of you and helps you meet your daily exercise and step goals.
Health care costs savings
Pet ownership saves you money. Research shows that pet owners make fewer visits to the doctor’s office. More than 130 million pet owners visit a doctor 0.6 times less than the average non-pet owner, resulting in cost savings of $11.7 billion.
A point of social connection
Whether you socialize with your neighbors while walking your pet, or join an agility training class to meet other like-minded dog owners, having a pet gently nudges you to get more social contact. If you live alone, a pet provides important companionship.
A sense of purpose
Since any type of pet (dog, cat, bird, hamster, even fish) relies on you for food, shelter, and affection, they are a powerful source of purpose in life. Some people devote large amounts of time and energy to helping animals through rescue and fostering. And, pets often give children their first experience of responsibility and the satisfaction that type of relationship brings.
While I’m the first to agree that pets aren’t for everyone, I am grateful for the exercise, companionship, unconditional love—and occasional craziness—my dog, Bingo, brings to my life.
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