Why Pets Promote Good Mental Health

You can find out more about adopting an emotional service pet at sites including certapet and others. Only a licensed mental health care professional can make these prescriptions. Once approved, your support animal can go almost anywhere you go.

Here are a few reasons why pets promote good mental health:

1. They help reduce stress.

Petting an animal or just spending time with them can work wonders towards reducing stress, anxiety and symptoms of depression. It can also help reduce blood pressure and cortisol levels in the body. It’s a great way to focus on something positive and forget about whatever was bothering you for a while.

2. They keep you busy.

Most pets live active lives, and by default, so do their owners. Taking a walk with your dog, cat or other animal is a great way for the both of you to get some healthy physical exercise. It’s a great way to burn calories while you’re taking time to enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.

3. They are constant companions.

Having a pet can reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation. Pets usually seem to know how we feel. They sit by your side sometimes and won’t leave until you’re feeling happy. They are wonderful for people who live alone or don’t have many friends or family who live close by. They can often fill an emotional void. Losing a pet is very hard to cope with for most which shows just how special they are to their owners.

4. They are good listeners.

Whether you’re having a good day or a bad day, animals are always there to listen. Sometimes just talking to them after when you get home from work can lift your spirits. You can go to them with a dilemma or a personal matter or anything else. They don’t judge you or criticize you. They accept you, no matter what.

5. They teach us a lot about responsibility.

Having a pet gives people something to do. Taking care of them, making sure they have enough food and spending time with them teaches people about compassion and responsibility. We are learning about caring for another being. Having them nuzzle up to you to be petted or wanting you to play with them shows how much they appreciate you. That’s bound to put a smile on anyone’s face!

6. They’re fun!

Taking time to play with your pet is fun. You can play catch, wrestle, or just run around for a bit. You can be as serious or as silly as you want with them. You’ll both enjoy the activity because you’re having fun. We all need to take time for fun when we can.

7. They provide security.

Some dog breeds make excellent guard dogs. They provide their owners with the security of knowing that their home and belongings will be secure. Their teeth and claws are a strong deterrent for any would-be burglars.

These are just a few of the many ways having a pet can help improve your mental health. If you are considering adopting or fostering an animal, make your selection wisely. Research them carefully, especially if you have any allergy concerns. A pet is a serious time commitment, but they provide countless hours of happiness and peace of mind.

By Stuart O’Riley. Contains a sponsored link.