Are you considering to be a pet parent? Here are a few benefits

Nothing compares to the joy of coming home to a loyal companion. The unconditional love of a pet can do more than keep you company. Pets may also decrease stress, improve heart health, and even help children with their emotional and social skills. Pets manage to bring so much joy into our lives. They make us laugh, comfort us when we’re sick or upset, and are always there for us no matter what. Now there are increasing number of households who choose to keep a pet.

Let’s take a look at some benefits of being a pet owner.

They make you happy

Pets can help to lift our mood and make us feel happier. An individual who owns a pet can relate to the calming influence and happiness of a cuddle or playtime with a furry friend after a long day.

They make sure you are never lonely

If you live by yourself, or with your family, there are times you may feel awfully lonely at home. If you own a pet you will never feel the same. Cats and dogs make great companions, as they prefer to lay nearby you most of the time. They will also be waiting for you at home and will be more than happy to welcome you home.

They lower your stress levels

Studies have shown repeatedly that people’s good mood increases and bad mood decreases around pets. Modern life is stressful and high levels of anxiety can lead to numerous health problems. Luckily, pets can really help us relax, playing with your dog, stroking your cat or simply watching fish swim around in a tank can make your worries melt away. Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone)

They lower the risk of a heart attack

Previous studies have proven that pet owners tend to have lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels than people who don’t own a pet. That means having a furry companion can decrease the chances of a heart attack later in life.

They can help you start a conversation

Having a pet is a great way to start a conversation and create bonds quickly, especially if you’re not too good at small talk. Talking about your pets can make the conversation favorable without being too personal or too professional.

They can improve your immune system

Pets spend a lot of their time outside and therefore bring all sorts of dirt and germs into your home. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though, the additional germs can help improve your immunity to colds and other mild illnesses. In fact, previous studies have shown that babies who live with a dog tend to experience fewer infections and are generally healthier than those who don’t.

They keep you fit

A dog is always ready to play with you. Even when it is the last thing you want to do on a lazy day. Playing with your dog keeps you physically active. Also all breeds of dog need regular, daily walks in order to stay happy and healthy. When you take your dog for a walk regularly it directly shows positive effects on your fitness.

They can catch cancer early

It’s no secret that a dogs’ sense of smell is incredible, but did you know that some canines are capable of detecting cancer? Several pet owners have reported that their dog saved their lives after they noticed they were constantly pawing at, sniffing or even licking a tumor hidden underneath the skin.

They can teach kids responsibility

It’s no secret that kids love animals, and if they’re old enough, having one as a pet can actually teach them a lot of important skills. Not only will they learn the practical skills required to own a pet, such as cleaning out the cage, grooming and teaching tricks; they’ll also develop their nurturing and empathy skills, which are vital in later life. Also they can be their best buddies as children do not step out to play, nowadays.

They make you feel safe

If you don’t like being at home alone, having a cat or dog there can provide you companionship to make you feel a lot safer. Also burglars are less likely to target a house that’s home to a dog. Some breeds make excellent guard dogs and will even protect you when you’re out for a run or walk.

Looking after a pet is a big responsibility, but when you consider all the benefits above, they make all that hard work worthwhile. Whether you choose to keep a cat, dog, rabbit or any other pet, they’ll make a great companion.