Check email, answer texts and make dinner reservations while keeping an eye on your pet? Not a problem! Thanks to the ever-present smartphone in our pockets and the growing number of apps that cater to pet care, digital nomads and pet parents alike can make pets a part of their lives no matter where they go. And the benefits go way beyond cuddling kitties in the café. A study published in the journal Behavior Reviews suggests that having pets in a house lowers stress levels and even boosts the immune system. According to the study, exposure to animals can reduce stress and anxiety, which can have a positive effect on our health. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh found that pet owners who spend time with their animals tend to have lower stress levels and better self-esteem than people who don’t have pets in their lives. Their findings also suggest that exposure to pets can trigger the release of chemicals that benefit mental health, possibly due to the animal’s ability to observe their owner’s behavior and predict their needs. That being said, having a pet isn’t for everyone. If you’re considering adding a furry friend to your home, here are some things you should know before taking the plunge.
How Do Pets Reduce Stress?
While the exact mechanisms behind the health benefits of pet ownership aren’t fully understood, a number of studies suggest that pet owners experience less stress and have better mental health than those without a pet in their lives. There’s also some evidence that pet ownership can help people feel more connected to their communities and make them feel more connected to themselves. This is likely because animals can help us understand how we impact others and give us a sense of purpose. But keep in mind that having a pet isn’t for everyone. You should only consider getting a pet if you have the time and energy to spend with them and feel confident in your ability to care for them.
Pets & The Immune System
More than a century ago, veterinarians noticed that people with pets tended to have fewer infections than those without. Today, the research is more concrete: Pets can help boost the immune system. There are several ways this happens. First, having an animal in the house can make you more aware of the germs and bacteria around you, which could lead to better hand-washing habits. Second, pet owners often express the sentiment that their pets make them smile and laugh more, which releases endorphins and has a physiological impact on stress levels.
Cats Make Great Therapy Animals
Cats have been domesticated for around 9,000 years, making them one of the closest species to humans. They’re also naturally attuned to people’s emotions, making them great therapy animals. Because they’re aloof by nature, cats are often less fazed by the accidents and chaos of daily life, making them better able to identify the symptoms of mental health issues.
Dogs Are Great Companions
As social animals, dogs are designed to spend time with other members of their pack, making them excellent pets for people who crave companionship. Dogs also have an innate drive to be included in family activities, which can help you break away from a screen-focused life and make friends and connections in the real world.
Picking The Right Pet
If you’re considering adding a pet to your life, the first thing you should do is figure out what kind of animal you’d prefer. For example, if you love cats, you might want to consider adopting one from a shelter or rescue group instead of getting a kitten from a random breeder. This will help you narrow down your options and pick the best companion for you.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for an easy way to lower your stress levels, add a pet to your life. It might sound cliché, but a pet can really make you smile — and that’s worth the effort! Keep in mind, however, that not everyone is suited to having a pet. If you don’t have the time to spend with them, or if you aren’t confident in your ability to care for them, you might not be a good pet parent.
