Unconditional love
The ability to be yourself without being judged
Promotes physical activity
Natural conversation starter
“All animals can be support animals. Some are just freelancing”--angelsrescue.org
There is no denying the healing quality of pets; service animals are very important to a multitude of the disabled population. Emotional support animals are there for those who struggle with mental health issues. Pets also improve the behaviors of dementia patients.
Simply stroking your pet has benefits. The mere presence of your best friend causes your body to release serotonin, prolactin, and oxytocin hormones. Research done by Husson University shows that these hormones promote mental well-being in those who suffer from anxiety and depression. A sense of responsibility adds icing on the cake in that having a pet fights hopelessness.
Having pets is also a distraction from many problems, including those of a medical nature. Petting a welcoming animal can boost the immune system and increase pain tolerance; breathing slows and with it, anxiety. Also, the exercise an animal must have means the owner will get heart-healthy exercise too!
If you have pets, you know they are always happy to see you when you get home. To them, you have been gone forever and when you leave again, they will miss you. Pets give unconditional love. You can also be yourself, without judgment, around your best friend.
Pets are a natural conversation starter. Chances are, you will find like-minded people. If you have dogs and someone you meet has dogs, it is likely you will have a nice conversation about…dogs.
No matter what kind of pet you have, whether it's a cuddly cat, a loyal dog, a chirpy bird, a slithery snake, or a graceful goldfish, they all bring joy and health benefits to your life. Take some time today to show your furry, feathery, or scaly friend some extra love and appreciation to let them know how much they mean to you.
Written by Tracy McIntosh
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