PetOwnership-related stories
Pets can be good for your health
Fellow pet lovers know the joy that a animal can bring to your life. Whether it's a dog, cat, or less popular but equally loved animal, pet ownership has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve quality of life. Some people even claim that their dogs have helped them to lose weight. What else can a pet do for your health and well-being? According to eDiets:- A dog can help you feel more secure on your daily walk.
- Pets help children develop higher self-esteem and build confidence.
- Kids who own pets are generally more involved in activities like hobbies, chores, and sports.
- People who suffer from heart disease and own pets have longer survival rates than those who are pet-free.
- Seniors who own pets tend to be more active and need less medication.
- Pets -- especially dogs -- may help you be more social.
What about you? How has your pet improved your well-being?
Why your pets are good for your health
Diet & Weight Loss, Motivation
When I was 18, the love of my life (up until that point, anyway) and first love broke up with me as he headed off to college. The very next night, my 16-year-old dog died in her sleep as I held her in my lap. The boy, I got over, but the dog still holds a special place in my heart.
As a dog owner, I was surprised by the recent study that pet owners tend to be more overweight than their non-animal loving counterparts. My dog loves to be active -- she dissolves into a nervous tail-wagging breakdown at the mere mention of a walk and is up for a game of fetch 24 hours a day. She doesn't get nearly the attention she deserves, but I think we tend to be more active because of her.
In any case, what didn't surprise me was this piece touting the emotional benefits of pet ownership. In fact, some studies have found that just petting an animal can lower the stress hormone cortisol in some people. Dogs -- friendly and instant conversation pieces -- also help people to be social and drive away loneliness. Even watching a fish tank can soothe and calm a restless mind. One theory is that nurturing and being responsible for another creature creates the unique bond between pet and owner. Personally, I think that it's the unconditional love a pet can give you. What pet owner hasn't come home from a long day at work and been forced to smile at the four-legged welcoming committee waiting for them at the door?
As a dog owner, I was surprised by the recent study that pet owners tend to be more overweight than their non-animal loving counterparts. My dog loves to be active -- she dissolves into a nervous tail-wagging breakdown at the mere mention of a walk and is up for a game of fetch 24 hours a day. She doesn't get nearly the attention she deserves, but I think we tend to be more active because of her.
In any case, what didn't surprise me was this piece touting the emotional benefits of pet ownership. In fact, some studies have found that just petting an animal can lower the stress hormone cortisol in some people. Dogs -- friendly and instant conversation pieces -- also help people to be social and drive away loneliness. Even watching a fish tank can soothe and calm a restless mind. One theory is that nurturing and being responsible for another creature creates the unique bond between pet and owner. Personally, I think that it's the unconditional love a pet can give you. What pet owner hasn't come home from a long day at work and been forced to smile at the four-legged welcoming committee waiting for them at the door?
