How to Benefit From Companion Animals

There are many health benefits to owning a companion animal. Any animal provides companionship, but most studies have concentrated on dogs and cats as pets. There is a proven link between living a longer, healthier life and owning a companion animal. Read on to learn how to benefit from companion animals.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Consider getting a pet like a dog or cat. Coming home to a loving pet who is genuinely happy to see you after a long day at work is very important, especially to someone who lives alone. It is something to look forward to all day.
2. Understand the benefits of pet ownership. Pets help decrease feelings of isolation and loneliness. They are someone to share your life with, especially for those who live alone and may not have close friends or neighbors, or live far away from family and loved ones.
3. Realize the medical benefits of pet ownership. Pets can help patients fight illness, especially depression. Pets are not a substitute for human support, but if that support is not available, pets help fill the void.
4. Know that companion animals have been shown to decrease blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well as help with feelings of loneliness and depression.
5. Own a pet if you need to increase your opportunities to exercise and enjoy outdoor activities and socialization. Walking a dog provides much needed exercise for both the dog and the owner.
6. Note that companion animals can help calm patients and lessen the amounts of needed medications, especially in the elderly and children. Studies have shown benefits from all types of companion animals including hogs, horses, cattle and poultry as well as dogs and cats.