The Benefits of Pets to Your Physical and Mental Health

According to statistics, almost 70% of US households have a pet. 

Are you part of the 30% odd who don't? Or maybe you have a pet and are curious about their effects on your health and well-being.

As it turns out, pets aren't just a luxury or an extra responsibility. Having a pet can improve both your physical and mental well-being. 

If you don't have a pet in your life, you could be missing out on some valuable health impacts. Read on to find out the various benefits of pets and how they can contribute to your mental and physical health. 

Pet Ownership Has Proven Mental Health Benefits

Most pet owners will confirm that having a pet can be a mood booster. Science confirms pets can have far-reaching effects on mental health and well-being. 

One study revealed that pet owners were 41% less likely to suffer from depression than non-pet owners.

Besides elevating one's mood and warding off feelings of depression, pets can also combat stress. Another study measured exam students' stress levels when provided with animal-assisted activities (AAAs) as a means of reducing stress before a final exam.

The results showed that AAAs improved students' moods and stress levels. 

One of the reasons why owning a pet can be so beneficial to one's mental health is it can provide a valuable source of emotional connection and physical closeness. Cuddling, stroking, and interacting with a pet can promote feelings of calm.

Relationships with pets also come with none of the complications that can be present in human relationships. They are free of competition, fear of disappointment, and judgment (unless you count cats' disapproving stares of course). 

Owning a Pet Can Significantly Improve Major Health Markers

Besides supporting mental health, pet ownership can also improve major health markers, such as blood pressure and heart rate. 

One of the reasons for this is certain pets, primarily dogs and horses—can increase your level of physical activity. 

But don't think that pets who don't need walks aren't good for physical health. As it happens, cats, who are notorious for being "unwalkable", can have positive effects on their owners' cardiovascular health. 

Research has shown that owning a cat can significantly reduce your risk of heart attacks and strokes. 

Pets Can Be a Powerful Exercise Motivator

Owning a pet won't give you a 6-pack overnight, but dog ownership can be very effective for increasing your daily exercise quota.

Most dogs require regular exercise. Large dogs and power breeds are especially exercise-hungry, but even the littlest dog can get you into your running shoes and out the door.

There is something about a pair of cute, begging eyes, and the sheer persistence that our four-legged friends have when it comes to walk time that leaves most dog owners powerless. 

Research backs this up, revealing that dog owners are four times more likely to meet exercise guidelines. What's more, most dog owners go for walks in addition to their regular exercise routines, such as yoga, cycling, lifting, or running. 

Pets Foster Connection

One of the less-obvious benefits of pets is their ability to trigger social connections. Not only are they conversation starters, but reports reveal that dog owners are seen as more trustworthy, and people are more likely to help a stranger with a dog. 

Now You Know About Some of the Benefits of Pets

As you can see, the benefits of pets go beyond having a cute friend to keep you company on the couch. Having a pet can improve your mental health, as well as your physical health through increased exercise and calming effects on your nervous system. 

Are you looking to optimize your health from all angles? Or get into peak shape so you can keep up with your power-breed pup?

Support your body from the inside out and browse our range of nutritional supplements.