Please enjoy this guest post from Jessica Brody
Have you been considering the possibility of getting a family pet? If so, you may be interested to know that pets do more than amuse us and cheer us up. In fact, there are various concrete and verifiable mental and physical health benefits associated with pet ownership. Also, bonding with a pet can help foster better communication and cooperation in your family life. So here are some tips to get you started, courtesy of Canine Curiosity Dog Training.
Physical Health Benefits of Having a Pet
Having a pet can help one stay more active. Dog owners find themselves getting a lot more exercise in, between walking and playing with them in the yard. But even if your pet doesn’t like walks playing with your pet can get you moving more. Plus, having chores to do to care for any type of pet may also keep you active and motivated.
Mental Health Benefits of Pet Ownership
There’s a reason why therapy animals are so popular: there are enormous and varied mental health advantages associated with owning, caring for, and interacting with pets. Obviously, pets can provide companionship and distraction from isolation, which helps reduce certain mental health symptoms, especially for those suffering from forms of depression. Multiple studies show that humans who can connect with a pet tend to have less stress. It can also help reduce trauma and PTSD effects. Just don’t forget that your stress can rub off on your pets as well, so try to be as positive as possible when they’re around – which, thanks to them, shouldn’t be too difficult!
Data on Health and Pet Ownership
Studies show a clear correlation between pet ownership and better physical health. For instance, dog owners tend to have fewer issues with obesity, heart disease, and blood pressure than non-dog owners. And studies suggest that there is less risk of cardiovascular disease among cat owners than among non-cat owners. Having a pet in your life can even help slow down some aspects of aging, and aid with pain management. The act of petting or stroking a friendly animal has been shown to reduce stress hormones. Since stress hormones affect not only mental health but also physical wellness, this kind of stress reduction is great for the whole person, body, and mind.
How the Whole Family Benefits
Pets can be great additions to families because they help everyone be less stressed, more active, more sociable. Also, dividing up the chores, when it comes to taking care of your pet, is an excellent opportunity to teach your kids responsibility, collaboration, and the joy of tending to another living being. Help your kids take care of the family pet by writing up a chore chart.
When You Bring Your Pet Home for the First Time
Even if you’ve had pets before, every animal is different, so you should take some time to read up on the specific needs of your kind of pet. Does your dog need a lot of exercise? A cat who sheds a lot? A bird who needs special food? Also, find out from the previous owner or breeder about your pet’s personality and needs. Get your kids involved when pet-proofing your house. Make them feel included so it’s safe for your new friend to run and explore in. Be sure to stock up on the basics you will need such as food, toys, and grooming equipment.
If you’re adopting a dog and your home doesn’t have a fenced-in yard, you may want to install one to keep him safe and prevent escapes. Connect with local fence companies and insist on a detailed cost estimate. A fence installer should also be licensed and insured.
Not every pet is a perfect fit for every individual or family. You have to take your unique needs and preferences into consideration. But once you do decide on a pet to welcome into your home, you can look forward to any number of advantages – as well as the joy of their companionship.
Are you a dog owner struggling with reactive dogs, basic obedience, house manners (jumping or barking) or do you just want to make sure you are setting your dog up for success? Or maybe looking for some recommended doggy daycares or pet sitters in the area? Canine Curiosity Dog Training is here to help! Email chelsea@caninecuriosity.com.
Jessica is a dog lover and is passionate about sharing pet photos and stories with others. She created Our Best Friends to be a venue for pet lovers to share their pet pics, stories and adventures. Jessica believes that pets are family and enjoys her bonding moments with her furry pals.