Four legged joys! Do pets have positive effect on out cognitive health? Here’s how

One of the reasons pets has this therapeutic influence on humans is that pets fulfil the basic human need for touch

Most pet owners are very clear about the positive effects of having a pet. However, they are not aware of the various benefits of having a pet, such as improving mental and physical health. In recent years, studies have started to reveal the various benefits of having a pet.

In the past few decades, pets have evolved to become more attuned to the way humans communicate. For instance, dogs can understand a lot of the words we use, although they are also capable of interpreting our gestures, body language, and tone of voice.

How pets can better your health

Pets can help reduce anxiety and depression, ease loneliness, improve your cardiovascular health, and encourage playfulness and exercise. They can also help children grow up to be more active and secure. Pets can provide valuable companionship for elders. In addition, they can add unconditional love and joy to your life.

Contrary to popular belief, having a pet can improve one's health significantly more than not having one. A rabbit may be ideal for people allergic to other animals or with limited space. Birds can also help keep one's mind sharp as an older adult, and reptiles such as snakes and lizards can provide a great source of exercise and relaxation.

What we know from the studies

People with high blood pressure are more likely to have a pet than those without one. In a study, those with borderline hypertension who adopted dogs from a shelter experienced a significant drop in their blood pressure within five months.

Having a pet can also help lower one's cholesterol and triglycerides levels. It can also help lower one's risk of heart disease. In fact, people who have a pet are more likely to survive a heart attack than those who don't have one. Pet owners over age 65 make 30 percent fewer visits to their doctors than those without pets.

One of the main reasons why pet therapy is so effective is that it fulfils the human need for touch. In prisons, inmates who were previously hardened criminals began to exhibit a change in their behaviour after they were able to interact with pets. By simply petting, cuddling, or giving a loving touch to a pet, one can instantly calm and soothe themselves when they are anxious or stressed.

Having a pet can also help ease loneliness. It can stimulate one's mood and decrease one's anxiety.

So consider adopting a pet and slow your cognitive decline.