Do pets improve the health of their owners? Most of the time, the answer would be yes. Pets can provide companionship, a reason to be more active, a sense of being needed, and an avenue to socialize with other humans. Some studies have shown that owning pets can lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and triglycerides, and decrease loneliness and stress. About two out of three US households own pets. It is estimated that there are over 160 million pet cats and dogs in the US.
One reason that people tend to feel better is the unconditional affection that their pet gives them. Think about it, if you own a dog, generally the first thing it does when it sees you is wag its tail and try to make some physical contact. Likewise, cats are known to enjoy physical contact which can give both the owner and pet satisfaction.
Probably the main reason dog owners tend to be healthier is that their pet causes them to be more active. Walking the dog is a healthy activity. Also, feeding and cleaning up after pets provides a reason to be physically active but also provides some consistency and sense of purpose for many pet owners.
I am amazed at how a pet can be a conversation starter for people. I have noticed this especially among campers who seem to love to stop and talk about their pet with a perfect stranger as they are out taking them for a walk.
Another benefit of owning a pet is that it does tend to teach life lessons. Pets, similar to young children, are capable of learning by applying simple psychology. Pet behaviors can be molded by providing consistent positive consequences for desired behaviors and consistent negative consequences for those that are undesirable. It is felt that pets can positively influence social, emotional, and cognitive development in children. Also, children and families often face the issues of aging and death through their pet’s life cycle.
Another benefit of pet ownership is that pets can be an alarm system to let the owner know when someone is approaching. Most pets will be protective of what they perceive is their territory.
Some people don’t have the physical capacity to care for a larger pet. Even smaller living things like birds, fish, or even a plant can provide benefit. Feeding, watering, and caring for a living thing somehow seems to give comfort. Sometimes people can visit their neighbor’s and enjoy some pet affection if they can’t care for a pet themselves. Some nursing homes even have pets that come to visit the residents.
Unfortunately, some pets can require more attention than their owner can provide. Then pets can create stress. Be careful to choose a pet wisely. Remember, cute little puppies can turn into big rambunctious dogs. Also, be sure to keep yourself and others safe by getting your pets vaccinated. Be careful to recognize that pets can carry some diseases so careful hand washing after contact is wise.
I bet many people have stories of how their pet has made a positive impact on their life and has even become part of the family. Consider a pet as a strategy to help you stay healthy my friends.
By: P. Michael Shattuck, M.D. – Community Health Network Family Physician
