Studies show that with interactions to therapy, animals can decrease stress in human beings. Playing with or petting on an animal can increase the level of the stress-reducing hormone named, Oxytocin and decreases the production of the stress hormone called Cortisol. A worried youngster may also benefit from these hormonal changes by feeling more at ease and certain while engaging in daily activities. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that having pets, particularly dogs, lowers patients’ blood pressure levels.
You can always talk to a dog, and the dog will not judge you. He is going to love you unconditionally without being demanding. He will greet you every time you reach home from office, school, market or anywhere else. The physical touch of pets can help reduce anxiety by creating a bond between that person and the animal. As all the animals require care and attention, having emotional support from a pet can improve the symptoms of anxiety.
Pets are also helpful for people who are blind and disabled and serve as companions to those who are socially isolated. They also benefit the people around in social or physical problems. The human-animal bond is a mutually beneficial and dynamic relationship between people and animal that is influenced by behaviour essential to the health and well-being of both. This include among other things, emotional, psychological, and physical interactions of people, animals and the environment. The veterinarian’s role in the human-animal bond is to maximize the potentials of this relationship.
Companion animals may improve the heart condition by lowering blood pressure and regulating the heart rate during stressful situations among elderly people.
Pet ownership might also be an important source of social support that enhances well-being. Elderly individuals who have a dog or cat were able to perform certain physical activities in many efficient ways. Animals play an important role in many people’s lives. In addition, some animals can be used in physical rehabilitation, occupational therapy, or speech therapy to help patients recover quickly. In addition, dogs have a great capacity for seizure detection. They provide elderly people with a source of social support that enhances their well-being.
Pets act like a fitness trainer and also help to relax the brain and lower stressful situations. Also, people who own pets are less likely to be obese. They reduce the feeling of loneliness. Pets love you unconditionally. Studies showed that:
- Compared to those who don’t own pets, pet owners are less likely to experience depression.
- Pet’s owners have high blood circulation in a stressful situation than the non-pet owners.
- Playing with pets can improve the level of serotonin and dopamine in the body.
- Those who own pets have lower triglyceride and cholesterol level.
- Those who own pets have very few chances of heart attacks.
One of the reasons for these therapeutic effects is that pets fulfil the basic needs of touch. Even hardened criminals in prison show long term changes in their behaviour after interacting with pets, many of them experiencing mutual affection. When you’re nervous or concerned, pets quickly relax and quiet you.
They provide the following health benefits to life-
- Increasing exercise
- Providing companionship
- Helping you met new people
- Reducing anxiety
- Adding structure and routine to your day
- Providing sensory stress relief
- Find meaning and joy in life
- Boost your vitality
