You have probably heard how animals have a good effect on a person’s mood. Numerous studies show that dogs, cats and even other animals can have a positive impact on a person’s happiness and mental health.
Even cuddling a dog or playing with a cat can boost the “happy hormones” in your brain. It can make you feel much more relaxed and perked up after a long week.
That is exactly what we call ‘Pet Therapy.’
Want to know more about how pets can improve your life? Let’s find out what researchers have to say.
Pets Help With Regular Exercise
Whether you get a dog or cat, you will have to interact with them. You will have to take dogs out for regular walks. You will have to play with cats for at least an hour per day.
Either way, you will be burning more calories than you do right now. Your pets will motivate you to lead a healthier lifestyle. And a healthier lifestyle promotes happiness and mental health.
Pets Are Great Reasons To Socialise
Pet parents have more reasons to frequent dog parks and pet cafes. Once you have a dog or cat, and you visit these places, you will meet more pet parents.
Even when you take your dog out for walks, you will meet a bunch of dog lovers who will come up and speak to you. In a busy city, where no one has the time to chit chat, pets can be the ice breaker you need.
Pets Are Great Companions
Pets are the best friends every person deserves. Cats and dogs won’t leave you when you are feeling low. They don’t just seek your companionship when you are happy.
In today’s world, finding true companionship is a challenge. So, more people are adopting cats and dogs to beat loneliness. They have the power to cheer you up and bring unconditional love in your life.
Pets Provide Emotional Support
Your dog or cat’s face will perk you up after a long day at the office. Cuddling with pets releases serotonin and dopamine in the human brain. However, without going into more boring details, we can assure you that pets bring happiness without any clause and cause.
Whether it’s their hilarious antics or innocence, pets can turn your frown upside down within a matter of seconds.
Pets Help Set Up Healthy Routines And Habits
Pets need timely feeding, cleaning up, playtime and dogs need walking. You will have to set up a routine to keep your pets healthy and happy.
You will have to fit in grooming appointments every couple of weeks. Your pets will also need regular veterinary checkups. These are all factors that will improve the quality of your life. Waking up on time and getting some exercise daily will definitely help with your physical and mental health.
Pets Help Fight Depression
Dogs and cats have the secret power to increase oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin in your brain. These are all chemicals that make us feel happy and positive.
Several studies have shown that pet owners live a happier, healthier and longer life as compared to non-pet-owners.
Pets Reduce Stress And Anxiety
All the “happy hormones” work together to reduce stress and anxiety. If you have a highly stressful job or are prone to anxiety, you should definitely try pet therapy.
Before getting a pet, spend some time at the dog park or pet cafes. Experience the relieving feeling as you interact with the cats and dogs there. Playing with them, sitting with them or even giving them treats can be de-stressing.
Pets Can Help Children With Autism And Learning Disorders
Several organisations already use therapy dogs and service dogs to help children with autism and learning disorders. If you have a special child at home, consider getting a pet.
Being in the company of a dog can help a child with reading and speech disorders. Dogs can enhance emotional intelligence and instil a sense of responsibility in a child. At the same time, check if your child has any animal-related allergies before getting a pet.
Any Pet Can Improve Your Happiness and Mental Health!
It’s not just cats and dogs. Research shows that even keeping an aquarium, rabbits and guinea pigs can improve mental health. If you are going through a tough time with depression, anxiety and loneliness, a pet might be the answer to all your problems.
