5 Reasons Owning a Pet is Good for Your Health

If you have ever shared your home with a furry friend, you already know the many joys an animal companion brings to your everyday life.  

Having a pet means always having a companion who’s happy to see you when you return home - regardless of whether or not you folded the laundry or emptied the dishwasher! You have a nonjudgmental, listening ear, a snuggle buddy, and a loyal companion who loves you unconditionally.

But did you know that there is compelling research to suggest that owning a pet is good for your physical and mental health?  

1. Pets help Alleviate Stress 

Having a dog or cat helps prevent loneliness and provides a calming effect. 

This is why pets, particularly dogs, make such good therapy animals and companions for people who suffer from anxiety-related disorders such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 

2. Pet Owners May Have Healthier Hearts 

If you own a dog, you may be less likely to develop heart disease.  This may be in part because dog owners walk more than people who do not own dogs. This helps lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and keep weight down. 

People who get an average of 30 minutes of aerobic activity each day strengthen their hearts, causing them to work more effectively. 

So, why not open your heart to a pet? 

3. Pets Can Help with Depression 

Caring for a pet offers someone something outside oneself to focus on, contributing to a positive sense of self-worth. Spending time with a pet also causes the body to release serotonin, a chemical that contributes to well-being and happiness. 

4. Pets offer positive Social Support for Children with Autism and ADHD 

Past studies have focused on how relationships with animals might influence the development of children with Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and other disorders. 

5. Pets keep People Connected 

One key to mental health is being connected to others.  Having pets creates social connections. 

People with pets tend to talk to other pet-people such as other pet parents, people who like animals, people who work with animals, etc.  

If you are walking a dog, people have a natural reason to talk to you.  A dog is a conversation starter.  People who are walking dogs are also more likely to stop and talk to others who are walking dogs. 

Pets do so many amazing things for humans.  

They improve our physical and mental well-being without even trying.  They make our homes and hearts warmer. 

We can help them, too, by adopting or fostering a pet in need of a loving home or volunteering at a local animal shelter. 

Consider Investing in Pet Insurance 

Looking for more ways to keep your pets happy and healthy? Consider investing in a pet insurance policy with MetLife Pet Insurance.¹  Get your free quote today.