Your pet is a beloved companion. Caring for your furry friend brings great joy, and is beneficial to your health, daily living activities, and affection. Our Santa Monica Veterinary Group team explains pet ownership’s positive advantages, including promoting your emotional and physical health. 

Pet ownership benefit #1: Companionship

A Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) survey reports that more than 85% of pet owners believe that their pets have alleviated their loneliness. One of the chief benefits of owning a pet is companionship and to lessen feelings of isolation. Your pet offers unconditional love and affection, and encourages interaction with other people, especially when you are out and about with your furry pal. You become part of a community in which the members share the common bond of loving their four-legged friends.

Pet ownership benefit #2: Physical health

Pets, particularly dogs, encourage physical activity and an active lifestyle because they need regular walks, playtime, and outdoor activities. Physical exercise not only benefits your pet’s well-being but also helps improve your cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and reduce stress. 

Several studies on heart health and pet ownership, including those conducted by Harvard Medical School, illustrate how a person’s cardiovascular health may improve by caring for a pet. The American Stroke Association has reported that owning a pet can reduce your stroke risk and that of other cardiovascular events. However, keep in mind that, even though you own a pet, all medical conditions should be treated through your health care provider. 

Pet ownership benefit #3: Mental well-being

You’ve probably had days when you come home from work exhausted and cuddle up with your favorite fur pal. Your stress has likely dissipated during this special interaction. Your pet’s presence can have a profound impact on your mental health, because oxytocin, the feel-good hormone, is released when you are interacting positively with your furry pal. Pets have been shown to lessen depression, anxiety, and stress by giving people a simple way of redirecting their attention to their furry pal’s needs.

Pet ownership benefit #4: Social connection

If you are a Meetup member, you’re likely aware of groups devoted to pets, from specific breed groups to activities with animals (i.e., hiking with dogs, goat yoga, cat cafes). Talking about your pet is the topic you love most and making social connections with like-minded people can quickly develop into a common bond.

Your dog’s daily walks are a wonderful opportunity to socialize with other dog owners, while enjoying fresh air and sunshine. The encounters you have each day may become lasting friendships for you and your pet, who also enjoys the interaction. The common denominator: your shared love for pets. 

Pet ownership benefit #5: Positive routine and purpose

A sense of purpose is often a life goal, and you likely find purpose in myriad things, from work to spending time with family, and yes, to taking care of your pet. Caring for a pet introduces a daily routine and adds responsibility to your life, which can elevate your mental well-being. Your pet’s needs, such as feeding, grooming, regular veterinary visits, and daily activities, helps create a structured schedule. These responsibilities can instill a sense of purpose and routine, which is particularly beneficial for individuals who thrive on structure.

Pet ownership benefit #6: Unconditional love and support

Pets show their owners unconditional love and loyalty because they don’t have the same expectations and judgments that many people have. Pets love us on our worst days and keep us going when we do not feel our best. Pets’ unique ability to love their owners unconditionally is why people consider their furry pals to be their best friends. 

These amazing pet ownership benefits show you just how important your pet is to your health and wellness. With an estimated 78 million dogs and 89 million cats living in U.S. households, pets are integral to our world. To learn additional pet ownership benefits or to schedule your furry pal’s wellness exam, contact our Santa Monica Veterinary Group team.