20 Ways Pets Actually Improve Your Health
Pets do more than bring joy—they can improve your heart, mind, and lifespan.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
Pets are more than just being adorable; they’re scientifically proven to boost your health. From lowering stress and blood pressure to keeping you active, pets do wonders for your well-being. Science says pets are the furry (or scaly) health experts we never knew we needed. Here are 20 surprising ways our pets improve our health.
1. Lower Stress Levels
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Playing with pets helps your body release feel-good hormones, like serotonin and dopamine, which calm you down. Even a few minutes with your furry friend can turn a stressful day into a better one.
2. Heart Health Boost
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Several studies show pet owners tend to have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Walking your dog or cuddling a cat can benefit your heart.
3. Better Fitness
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Dogs keep you moving on a quick walk or a playful run. Pet owners are usually more active compared to those without pets.
4. Stronger Immune Systems
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Being around pets exposes you to harmless germs, strengthening your immune system. Research has shown that children with pets often have fewer allergies as they grow up.
5. Less Loneliness
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Pets are always there, whether you’re happy, sad, or need company. Their presence fills the quiet moments in your life.
6. Improved Mental Health
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Everyone would agree that pets are natural therapists. They provide comfort and love in our most trying times that can ease anxiety, depression, and even PTSD.
7. Social Connection
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Walking your dog or visiting a dog park can help you meet new people. Did you know that pets are great conversation starters? Yes, that’s right! They bring people together in ways we can’t imagine.
8. Blood Sugar Support
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Some pets can sense when their owners’ blood sugar drops. Some examples include licking, especially around the mouth, and barking, howling, or whining. Even spending time with your pet can help regulate stress-related spikes in blood sugar, according to studies.
9. Faster Recovery From Illness
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Patients with pets recover quicker from surgeries and illnesses. Just petting an animal can reduce pain and help with the healing process.
10. Encourages Routine
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Pets need feeding, walks, and playtime, which helps you stick to a schedule. This structure can make your days more productive and organized.
11. Eases Chronic Pain
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Cuddling a pet can trigger endorphins, which naturally reduce pain. Therapy animals are often brought to hospitals for this particular reason.
12. Reduces Anxiety
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Pets are like walking stress relievers. Watching them play or just petting them can calm your nerves. Studies have shown that your furry friend can reduce loneliness and create a mindful connection.
13. Teaches Empathy
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Caring for pets helps you become more patient and understanding. These traits can also improve your relationships with other people!
14. Support During Grief
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Pets offer unconditional love when you’re going through tough times. They listen without judgment and provide comfort just like humans, too.
15. Keeps Your Mind Sharp
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Interacting with pets can boost brain activity, especially in older adults. It keeps your mind engaged and focused, so it’s always a great idea to spend time with them occasionally.
16. Stronger Bones
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Walking your dog is an excellent weight-bearing exercise. It strengthens your bones and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Plus, it lets you spend time in the sun, which is known to provide vitamin D.
17. Mood Boost Through Touch
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Cuddling or petting a pet releases oxytocin, the “happy hormone.” It’s a natural mood booster that’s always available—Have you ever wondered why you’re always stress-free with your furry friend? This is probably the reason why.
18. Longer Life
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Studies show that pet owners live longer, healthier lives. Pets give you reasons to stay active and happy and face every struggle without ever thinking of negativities.
19. Sense of Purpose
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Pets rely on you for their care, which gives your life meaning. Knowing you’re needed is always a great motivator to keep going.
20. Pure Joy
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Pets make life brighter with their wagging tails, funny antics, and unconditional love. They’re the daily dose of happiness, a ray of sunshine everyone needs.