Do Pets Improve Health?
Pets have been used for many purposes, and now, pets are not just considered for positions as seeing eye dogs, goats, etc. Many pets are considered “therapy pets.” They are allowed in stores, restaurants, and any other public places with their caretakers, and many come to depend on them. Others simply consider them as part of the family. But recently, while obviously the right pet can be stress relieving and even comforting many, some experts have started looking into the health benefits of having a dog. So what are they?
1. Pets Encourage Exercise
This is actually one of my own. But when you have a dog, it’s easier to find a reason to get out and do some walking. Pets often mirror their owner’s activity levels, eating habits, etc. So in order to preserve the health, wellbeing, and even happiness of dogs or other pets, many will be more encouraged to take their dogs for walks, runs, and otherwise getting the 1 hour or more of cardio per day necessary to successfully lose weight.
2. Can Dogs Detect Cancer?
Studies are beginning to show that cancer may actually have a very distinct smell not apparent to humans. But dogs smell it, and when trained properly, can be taught to indicate such. Some pets are more likely to make indications without being trained.
3. Horses Have Been Used To Treat The Disabled
There are multiple foundations now available that work specifically with children who have cerebral palsy and other diseases and disorders. It can be calming, and recreational horseback riding therapy has been used to give them an outlet while simultaneously helping many to learn to deal with others in a more constructive manner.
4. Pets Reduce The Risk Of Allergies In Infants
When exposed to pet hair and dander at an early age, it does not increase the risk of pet related allergies. It actually decreases it by making pet hair and dander a “normal” part of life and therefore an accepted element in the immune system. It may also contribute to a healthier immune system as a whole.
5. Alleviating anxiety and soothing depression
Many deal with depression and anxiety by eating more, by staying in, by not interacting with others, and some would go so far as to say that more stress creates more cortisol in the body. While excess levels of cortisol are extremely rare at best, many studies have found that pets actually provide a healthier stress reliever, helping many to function more effectively, avoid stress eating, and otherwise improve the overall quality of life.