Many of the
benefits of pets — companionship, affection and so on — have been well known for
centuries — even numerous ancient Egyptians cherished their companion animals.
However, data gathered during only the last few years have shown just how
significantly our health is improved if we share our lives with animals.
A study undertaken in 2002 by the Waltham Center for Pet Nutrition and United
States Food and Drug Administration revealed that the heart rates and blood
pressures of pet owners increased less when the individuals were presented with
math problems to solve if their companion animals were present.
study, one conducted by the United States National Institutes of Health during
2001, showed that people who have pets not only “make fewer doctor visits,
especially for non-serious medical conditions,” but are more likely to be alive
one year after being treated for a coronary condition.
surveys of individuals sharing their lives with pets have revealed that most of
them are convinced their health is improved by having animals around.
Ninety-two percent of the respondents to a survey conducted by the American
Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) during 2002 indicated that they derive
significant health benefits from their pets.
In addition, of the
76 percent stated their stress levels are reduced by their
65 percent indicated their mental health is improved by
31 percent stated their physical fitness has been improved by
their providing of exercise for their companion animals
A survey undertaken by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) in
2000 yielded results very similar to those obtained by the AAHA.
Eighty-eight percent of the senior citizens who responded to the APPMA survey
indicated that “pets make their family or home life healthier, either
emotionally or physically.” In addition, 79 percent of all of the respondents
stated they believe “pets help to create a healthier balance…with the increasing
presence of technology” in homes.
“People feel that having a pet — a real
being to care for and be with — helps balance the cold influence technology can
have on a home,” according to APPMA Communications Director Funda Alp.
“Pets are…more than just a member of the family — they are central to a healthy
lifestyle,” according to AAHA President Link Wellborn.
I couldn’t agree
Health Benefits of Pet Ownership
The unique bond we share
with our pets dramatically enriches our lives, our physical health and our
emotional well-being. Many studies have shown that while we are taking care of
our pets, our pets are taking care of us.
Pets Help to Lower Blood Pressure. A recent study at the State University of New York at
Buffalo found that people with hypertension who adopted a cat or dog had lower
blood pressure readings in stressful situations than did those who did not own a
pet. (Dr. Karen Allen, State University of New York at Buffalo)
Pets Help to Reduce Stress. Walking with a pet helps to sooth nerves and offers instant
relaxation. Studies conducted worldwide have shown that the impact of a
stressful situation is lesser on pet owners, especially males, than on those who
do not own a pet. (Josephine M. Wills, Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, United
Pets Help to Prevent Heart Disease. Because pets provide people with
faithful companionship, research shows they may also provide their owners with
greater psychological stability, thus a measure of protection from heart
disease. (National Institute of Health Technology Assessment Workshop: Health
Benefits of Pets)
Pets Help to Lower Health Care Costs. People with pets
actually make fewer doctor visits, especially for non-serious medical
conditions. (National Institute of Health Technology Assessment Workshop: Health
Benefits of Pets)
Pets Help to Fight Depression. Pets help fight depression
and loneliness, promoting an interest in life. When seniors face adversity or
trauma, affection from pets takes on great meaning. Their bonding behavior can
foster a sense of security. (Between Pets and People: The Importance of Animal