Research shows that sharing your home with a pet provides lots of health benefits. Keeping a pet can help lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety. They can also boost immunity, promote exercise and even help you score a date! Read on to find out about the other major benefits of keeping the following types of animal.
- CATS
Cats can make wonderful companions, and studies show that cat owners are less likely to be at risk of having a stroke than any other class of pet owner. You’re also likely to be more intelligent – studies also suggest that cat owners are smarter than those who own dogs.
- DOGS
Dogs need exercise and walking with your dog is a great way to incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine. But dogs are also great for making love connections. Forget about internet dating – a dog is a natural conversation starter. People will often ask about the breed or the behaviour of a dog. Sometimes these conversations can lead to real social interaction. Training classes and parks are great places to meet new people and make new friends.
- BIRDS
Birds have an inquisitive and cheerful nature and recent studies show that birds encourage social interaction, which is good for mental health. Additionally, companion birds tend to have a long lifespan compared to other pets, so no need to deal with the grief of losing your friend to old age after just a few years.
- FISH
Studies have shown that aquariums have a profound ability to lower blood pressure, calm the mind, and help to alleviate anxiety. They also help to create a relaxing, soothing environment just about anywhere you put them. It’s no wonder that aquariums are often used in the waiting rooms of doctors, dentists, restaurants and spas. They have the power to keep us entertained and mesmerized for long periods of time. It has been said that aquariums have a hypnotic effects and when people are subjected to them prior to having medical procedures done, most end up needing less pain medication to get the job done.
- REPTILES
If you are allergic to fur, then keeping a cat or dog may not be an option. A reptile is the hypo allergenic option in this sense. They are also cleaner and much quieter than either cats or dogs and, as long as you keep their tank clean, they are a lot less smelly!
We recommend seeking professional advice when considering purchasing a pet of any kind to ensure the home you can offer your new pet provides the right type of environment for its needs.
