Did you know that pets can help us with some powerful mental health benefits? Pets have scientifically shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve your cardiovascular health. Caring for a pet can help children grow up more reliably and active or provide meaningful companionship to older adults.

• The health benefits of pets:

Most pet owners have shared about the immediate joy that follows after sharing their lives with the furry companions. However, most of us remain oblivious of the physical and mental health benefits that can also accompany the pleasure of snuggling up to a furry companion.

Pets have started to shrewdly adapt to humans and our behavior and emotions. Pets like dogs and cats have the ability to understand many of the words we use, but they’re even better at interpreting our tone of voice, body language, and gestures. And like any good human friend, a loyal dog has that potential to look into your eyes to determine your emotional state of being.

• How pets can help you make healthy lifestyle changes:

 Adopting healthy lifestyle changes plays a significant role in easing symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress. Owning a pet can help you make healthy lifestyle changes by:

Increasing exercise. Taking your pet for a walk, hike or run is fun and in fact, one of the best ways to fit  healthy daily exercise into your schedule. Dog owners are far more likely to meet their daily exercise requirements which also makes it great for pets as well. It is sure to deepen the connection between you, eliminate most behavioural problems in pets, and also keep them fit and healthy.

Providing companionship. Companionship can help impede illness and even add years to your life, while isolation and loneliness can trigger symptoms of depression. Caring for pet can make you feel needed, and divert your focus away from your problems, especially if you live alone. Most of the pet owners talk to their pets. And nothing better than coming home to a wagging tail or purring cat.

Helping you meet new people. Pets can be the reason for their owners to socialise and start new friendships. Pet owners frequently stop and talk to each other on walks, hikes, or in a dog park.

Reducing anxiety: The companionship of a pet can provide comfort, help ease anxiety, and build self-confidence for people anxious about going out into the world. Pets have the ability to help you become more mindful and appreciate the joy of living in the present.

Providing sensory stress relief: Touch and movement associated with pets are two healthy ways to quickly manage stress. Stroking a pet can lower blood pressure and help you quickly feel calmer, less stressed and relieved.

• The health benefits of pets for older adults:

Owning a pet can play a key role in healthy aging by helping you to:

Find meaning and joy in life: As you age, you’ll lose things that previously occupied your time and gave a purpose to your life. You may retire from your career or there may be possible chances that you’re not around your close ones. Caring for a pet can bring gratification and help boost your spirit, optimism, and sense of self-esteem.

Stay Connected: Maintaining a social network isn’t always facile as you grow old. Retirement, illness and relocation can take away close friends and family. And making new friends can get harder. Pets are the right partners for older adults to spark up conversations and meet new people.

Boost Your Vigour: You can vanquish many of the physical challenges associated with aging by taking good care of yourself. Pets encourage playfulness, laughter, and exercise, which can help boost your immune system and improve your energy.