Animals that have been trained professionally such
as dogs for guiding the blind are, for human beings, obvious benefits. On the
other hand, domestic pets on average like goldfish, cats and dogs are also able
to provide human beings with many benefits that are therapeutic. Pets can
encourage playfulness, encourage exercise, promote social interaction, reduce
stress and ease loneliness. Plus, they provide their owners with unconditional
affection and love.
Health
and Mood
While most owners of pets are clear about how much
having animals as companions bring joy into their lives, many are not aware of
the mental and physical benefits that come with the pleasures of snuggling up
to furry pals or playing with them. Studies have shown recently that the bonds
between animals and humans have just as much benefits to health and mood.
Reduced
Tension
Studies show that a pet does not have to be a cat or
a dog. Even watching aquarium fish can help in the reduction of pulse rate and
muscle tensions. In addition, persons with pets tend to have lower levels of
cholesterol and triglycerides compared to persons who do not own pets. Levels
of dopamine and serotonin, which relax and calm a person, are elevated in
persons who play with pets. In stressful situations, persons who have pets tend
to have blood pressure levels that are lower than those who do not own a pet.
Lastly, studies also show that owners of pets do not suffer from being
depressed compared to those who don’t own pets.
Fewer
Visits to the Doctor
Owners of pets who are over the age of sixty-five
make thirty per cent less visits to the doctor than those who do not own a pet.
Plus, patients who have had a heart attack and own a pet survive more than
those who do not own a pet.
Need
for Touch
One reason that there are effects that are
therapeutic among pet-owners is that touch is a basic human need that a pet
fulfils. After interacting with pets, even prisoners who are hardened show long
term change in their behaviour after a while.
Mark Perissinotto has been a practicing veterinarian for over 20 years, 14 years of which he was the owner and principal of a busy multi-vet mixed animal hospital. One of the two co-founders of Vet Shop Australia, graduated from the University of Queensland with Bachelor of Veterinary Science and one of the best retailer of pet supplies Australia.
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