The Health Benefits of Owning Pets

Pets make our lives better!

Every pet owner knows that there is nothing like the love of an animal. It is a love that is unwavering and strong. Having a pet is a truly wonderful thing, but did you know that it can actually make you a healthier, happier person? Being a pet parent comes with a variety of benefits, and our veterinarian in Levittown has cataloged them into the following list to help you to understand how your pet makes your life better:

#1. Pets make us happy.

Pet owners are much less likely to suffer from depression or anxiety. In fact, for some, owning a pet can be more effective for treating depression than medication! Studies have shown that simply looking at a pet can increase the levels of Oxytocin (the chemical that makes you feel good) in the brain.

#2. Pets strengthen the immune system.

Our society is obsessed with killing germs and bacteria, which is a surefire way to develop a weak immune system. People who own pets are exposed to more bacteria, which helps to strengthen their immune systems. Pets also help to people to become more allergy-resistant.

#3. Pets make us more active.

Pets, just like people, need plenty of exercise to stay healthy. It can be difficult to keep your pet healthy from your couch, which is why pet owners tend to stay more active than people without pets.

Want to learn about more amazing health benefits of being a pet owner? If so, please stay tuned for our next blog!

Pets help us to lead happier, healthier lives. 

Pets are truly incredible. Not only are they always there, smiling and excited, every time we walk through the door, but they make our lives better in so many different ways. In our last blog, our veterinary clinic in North Merrick went over a few of the main health benefits of owning a pet, but there is so much that we haven’t covered yet! Keep reading to learn about more of the health benefits that come from owning a pet:

#4. Pets can improve heart health.

Pets can be very calming, and studies have shown that by merely cuddling and petting your dog, it can lower both blood pressure and heart rate. Some research has even found that pet owners tend to have lower cholesterol and have a better chance of surviving a heart attack.

#5. Pets encourage activity that promotes strong bones.

Did you know that by simply walking your dog, you are promoting stronger bones? Walking the dog is a weight-bearing exercise that will strengthen the bones and the muscles that surround them, plus it also gets you outside, which will help you to soak up some Vitamin D.

#6. Pets reduce stress.

Stress has so many negative effects on our lives, and if you find yourself struggling with stress, consider getting a pet! Having a pet around helps to ease anxiety and stress in many ways. They distract us from our stress, and both movement and touch have been proven de-stressors, which makes cuddling your pet even better!