The Benefits of Having A Pet

By Team Introverts There are many benefits to having a pet in your family. Studies show that when pets are present, a person’s anxiety and depression reduces. In an article written by Mandy Oaklander for TIME magazine, it was confirmed that according to science, many types of pet assist to calm stress, fear, anxiety. This does not only apply to young children, but it also applies to the elderly and everyone in between. People feel happier and safer when having pets to pamper and be pampered by. Marta Vieira, a famous soccer player had stated that her pets help her curb moderate to mild depression as having a pet has helped her to not feel isolated, and the unconditional love provided by her pet has help improve her self-esteem. Petting an animal releases serotonin and dopamine in the brain. These two hormones are known as the feels good hormones, which essentially makes people happier.

Having a pet does not only contribute to the emotional well-being of a person but physical as well. It is shown that having a pet can lower blood pressure, increases opportunities for exercise and other physical activities. It has been proven that if a person owns a pet they will have a longer, healthier and happier life. Bringing your pets for walks or playing with them, not only make your pets happy but is a good physical activity.

For families with children, having a pet would be a great way to teach children responsibility. It has also been proven to make children immune to certain conditions such as allergies and asthma. Children who grew up around pets are known to be more active, and have a lesser chance of falling into depression. Children with pets often use them as a source for comfort or even an outlet during sad times. For the elderly, pets provide them with better cognitive functions, reduces their blood pressure and keeps them active. Having pets can be very beneficial. Pets indirectly boost mental and physical health, improving a person’s quality of life. It is no doubt that having a pet can be hard work, but it is totally worth it! Try to ‘Adopt! Don’t Shop’ as it can be life-altering for both the owner and the rescued pet.