Pets Are Good For You - Veterinarians Agree!
As anyone who has ever loved a companion animal can tell you, pets make people feel good. In the past, however, there was no scientific evidence to back this up. Well now there is. Studies done in the last decade have proven that owning pets can be beneficial to human health in many ways.
As The Center for Disease Control’s website states, owning pets can lower people’s blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as provide opportunities for exercise, outdoor activities and socialization.
There are other benefits as well. A 2002 study released by the American Medical Association stated that children raised from birth in multiple pet households may be less likely to develop allergic illnesses, such as asthma, allergies and eczema. Apparently, being exposed to the “germs” of dogs and cats early in life helps build the immune system.
A foundation called the Delta Society focuses exclusively on harnessing the power of the human-animal health connection. Their mission is to unite Americans with mental and physical illnesses and disabilities with trained therapy animals. A comprehensive collection of studies related to the health benefits of pet ownership can be found on their website (www.deltasociety.org). These studies show that pets have helped people cope with a myriad of issues, from trauma to attachment disorders to autism.
Although veterinarians have probably always intuitively known that animals do people good, The American Veterinary Medical Association now recognizes the importance of the human-animal bond, and has issued a statement supporting the health benefits of animal companionship for people.
So, pet owners take heart - the next time you wince at Rover’s vet bill or plop down a $50 bill for that kitty condo, look at it not only as a sign that you are a responsible pet owner, but as insurance for your future health.
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