It’s no secret that I love animals. They bring a level of happiness to our lives that can’t be expressed with words. But did you know that having a pet an actually be beneficial for your health? It’s true!
Warning: this post may make you want to run out and adopt a pet.
1. They Help Us Get Active
Owner Pamela Fletcher’s dog Ollie
Having a pet — especially a dog — can help you lead a more active lifestyle. Having a furry friend who depends on you for their exercise needs is a great motivator to get up and outside when you may struggle to find the willpower otherwise. Going for even a short walk every day is one of the best things you can do for your health!
2. They love you back
Farmer’s Market Booth Manager Bergen Adair’s dog Munnin
Pets are more than just fun to have around — they are sentient beings with feelings and emotions. A recent study found that dogs do in fact love you back (the verdict is still out on cats though).
3. They Help With Allergies
Bakery Manager Kris Stoudt’s dog Jeffica
This may seem counter-intuitive, but having (or especially growing up with) a pet can help prevent allergies. Allergies occur when your immune system attacks harmless foreign bodies it misinterprets as dangerous. Think of pets as exposure therapy — the more your body is exposed to these foreign bodies, the more familiar it will become with them and the less of these foreign bodies it will think it needs to attack.
4. They make us happy!
Bakery Employee Ruth Blesse’s dog
Having pets around makes us happy. The act of snuggling a pet releases endorphins that make us feel good, and can lower the stress hormone cortisol. Having a furry friend can help reduce loneliness, soothe anxiety, decrease symptoms of depression, and offer companionship.
If you’re considering getting a pet, please adopt from a local shelter, never shop from a breeder or pet store! And always make sure you do research about the responsibilities involved before you make the commitment. Have a fur-tastic day!
