There are more than 180 million companion animals in the United States, an astounding figure when compared with the national figure, since Spain has 5.1 million dogs and 2.2 million cats. It is obvious that anyone who decides to bring a pet into their life does so to enrich it, to have companionship, and to be happier. But American scientists have shown that the benefit is deeper and has a direct connection to our brains.
For approximately a decade, researchers have been investigating the fact that pets boost our oxytocin levels. This hormone helps strengthen the bond between us, since it is responsible, among other things, for enabling us to love, be loyal, compassionate, and kind… as well as to give birth and produce breast milk. But in recent years, studies have gone further and opened up some very interesting areas of research.
1. They activate our brain chemicals
As we mentioned, the happiness hormones increase. At the same time, however, cortisol levels decrease, which are linked to stress, anxiety, isolation, and weight gain. This is according to the University of Minnesota’s «Center to Study Human-Animal Relationships and Environments». So much so that some time ago, a university in the United States set up a classroom where students could relax… by petting puppies and spending time with them.
2. They help keep our mental health under control
Animals help people with emotional or mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression, improve their well-being. This is because pets are family members. They offer emotional support and help in everyday life. In some cases, these people have a stronger bond with their pets than with other people. This can help prevent everything from self-destructive impulses to panic attacks. In addition, pets give them a reason to carry out their daily tasks, take action, and assume responsibilities. Pets should be considered a primary source, rather than a marginal source, of support in managing long-term mental health problems, which should have implications for the planning and provision of health services.
3. They help our hearts
Several studies in both the U.S. and China show a fascinating correlation between owning pets and having a lower risk of dying from heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.
4. They help us age
Patients with dementia often face problems such as anxiety, depression, and a loss of the desire to live. This can make life very, very difficult for them and their families. In recent years, researchers have turned to pet therapy as a way to create an emotionally beneficial bond for patients with dementia. In this post, we discuss it in greater detail.
5. They help us grow
Recent studies show that emotional, cognitive, educational, and social connections develop more effectively during childhood when children live with animals. So much so that it is said that children may even come to prefer their ARISTOPETS over their siblings, as we told you here. They help strengthen children’s self-esteem, improve social skills, develop a sense of responsibility, and interact in groups. They are an inexhaustible source of affection, and there is never rivalry between them.
Although these areas are still in the development stage, they show how pets affect us and place them in a wonderful position, where they are not only our companions in life but also an inexhaustible source of health.