More health and happiness… 5 benefits that humans gain from raising pets.
A new study has found five benefits of raising pets that can help improve human health.
It is widely known that pets can help support human health and well-being, but the benefits should be mutual. Pets are conscious beings that deserve to be treated with care and respect, not as tools to support human well-being at the expense of their own, according to a report published on the scientific site “Science Alert.”
Here are five ways for you and your pet to become healthier and happier together:
Rest and relaxation
Pets can help alleviate stress and distress. Research has shown that the physical presence of a dog can reduce blood pressure and heart rate in humans during a stressful task, more so than the presence of a family member or friend. However, individuals who were asked to perform stressful tasks in the presence of a friendly but unfamiliar animal did not report any benefits.
So, pets can be an important source of comfort, security, and support—a safe haven—for their owners. But pets also find comfort in humans. It is possible to soothe them by being with them and enjoying the emotion; however, intense interaction between humans and animals can also lead to attachment issues, making them susceptible to aggression, fear, and separation anxiety.
Building relationships
Building relationships is essential for both the owner and the pet to maintain good health. The positive relationship between humans and pets is one that acknowledges the owner’s responsibility for the pet’s well-being. On the contrary, dysfunctional relationships with pets can lead to trauma and aggression. Caregivers with less friendly or poorly behaved dogs may suffer from anxiety and depression.
It is important to train pets using methods that foster a positive partnership between humans and animals. This can also help both the owner and the pet gain a more optimistic outlook on life. Research has shown that positive reinforcement training, rather than punishment-based methods, is the best approach for animal welfare and skill acquisition.
Making friends
Taking your pet for a walk may have health benefits beyond just exercise.
Pets can help enhance friendships and relationships and build a sense of community. For example, pet owners are likely to recognize other people in their local area.
Why does this happen? Research indicates that pets have a profound impact on “social lubrication,” helping to establish relationships with other pet owners and animal lovers.
Therefore, pet owners are less likely to experience social isolation than those who do not have pets.
Dietary decisions
By supporting people in making better dietary decisions for their pets, it may also be possible to encourage healthy eating for humans.
Combining a healthy diet with regular exercise can lead to weight loss in pets and humans, making their bodies healthier.
Learning to walk longer distances
Regular physical activity is associated with numerous health benefits, both for humans and for pets.
Walking is a cost-effective and relatively accessible way for most dog owners to improve the physical health and overall well-being of both humans and their pets.
For example, people who regularly walk dogs have a lower body mass and higher levels of physical activity compared to those who do not own dogs, or those who do not walk the dogs they live with. Walking at least three times a week can alleviate back pain and reduce the risk of recurrence by half.
In the end, life with a pet should be a mutually beneficial, healthy, and happy relationship. Following these five guidelines can help pet owners and their pets find comfort and calm in each other while maintaining a healthy weight and appearance.
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