Pets Good for your Health

It’s a fact; pet ownership is good for your health, your children’s health and can help you live longer! Sounds wildly optimistic, but chances are, you'll feel better if you own a pet!

Medical studies on the human-animal bond reveal that pet owners are more likely to have reduced stress levels, cholesterol levels and blood pressure. They also experience fewer heart attacks than people without pets.

Researchers have found that the mere presence of an animal has a beneficial effect on heart function, and stroking and talking to a pet reduces blood pressure and stress.

For years, switched-on parents have known that pets and children are a good combination. Now, research is demonstrating that children can positively benefit from animal companionship. Children with pet animals are more likely to have higher self-esteem.

A US study of university students revealed that those who had owned dogs or cats as childhood pets were more self-confident than those who did not. Pets are a wonderful stress buster for adults and kids. Children raised with family pets suffer from fewer incidences of asthma and allergic reactions than kids in pet-free households.

Pets also stimulate communication skills in children. An International study of school children between the ages of 11 and 16 revealed that children with pets had a better ability to understand non-verbal communications. Pet ownership is an excellent way to teach children about responsibility. However, don’t forget that any pet requires attention, guidance and care. In return for feeding, grooming and exercising their pets, children obtain companionship and unconditional love.

Please don’t forget, the needs of the pet should be considered as you make your choice. Out at work all day? Don’t take on a puppy or a dog unless you have live-in help. You must also be prepared to provide the socialisation and training all dogs require. If you can’t allow a pet to live as part of your family inside your home please reconsider dog ownership.

Think about what you will do when you go on holidaybefore committing to a pet. Consider your lifestyle before deciding on a pet. All pets deserve our time, love and daily care.

Experienced PAI volunteers can help you find the best pet match for your family. It’s a win-win situation. You gain all the benefits of adoration and love and our shelter pets find a loving forever family!