Pets provide people with many benefits, but at the same time, they involve many responsibilities. Having a pet means adding another member to the family, from the expenses involved in feeding, caring for, and protecting it to the time you have to dedicate to it.
In addition to all the responsibilities you take on, having a pet involves a series of conditions so that it can develop and feel comfortable at home. It is important, as we have mentioned before, that your pet has an appropriate space, that the owners' lifestyle fits that of the pet, and that there is enough time available to dedicate to it... You even have to take into account the financial factor because of the expenses pets require.
María Martínez, an ethologist veterinarian at Clínica Malasaña in Madrid, tells us the 10 reasons why having a pet is beneficial:
1. Reduces stress
The claim that pets, both dogs and cats, reduce stress is not merely hearsay; it has been proven. Studies show that this happens. Simply touching a pet and being in contact with it allows people to stimulate relaxation and reduce the stress hormone, cortisol.
2. Increases your level of happiness
The happiness a pet brings is linked not only to what it offers you, but also to the experiences you share with it. It increases the happiness hormone known as oxytocin.
3. Reduces the likelihood of getting sick
Pets have greater contact with the environment, especially dogs, because of walks and the areas they sniff. In the end, they are able to pick up more microbes, which means that people who have pets become less likely to get sick because they become stronger and more resilient. Clearly, there are always exceptions, and this does not mean that owners never get sick.
4. Improves physical fitness
A pet allows you to be more active and forces you to take it for walks, especially in the case of dogs, which helps improve your health.
5. Improves heart health
Heart health is related to your physical fitness. A pet keeps you more active, going for walks, playing with it, exercising... In the end, exercise is important for your health.
6. Relieves loneliness
Both dogs and cats are excellent companion animals. They are with you at all times, making you feel loved and protected. They can help you overcome difficult periods and provide unconditional support. Without asking anything in return, they will always stay by your side.
7. Strengthens your ability to socialize
People always say that dogs help you socialize and meet more people during walks. But the same is true of cats, because pets can be a common topic of conversation with other people. They help you meet people, open up, and interact with those who, at first glance, seem completely different from you.
8. Helps you take on responsibilities
When children grow up with dogs around them, they learn to take on the level of responsibility required to have a pet. Pets also help increase empathy, in both children and adults. Ultimately, people become more empathetic and respectful toward the environment and other people.
9. Increases people's creativity
Having a pet helps you improve your drive to better yourself. It encourages you to improve and engage with each day, even though you receive no financial benefit in return. Everyone works hard at their job and receives a salary at the end of the month, but with pets, that is not the case; you do it unconsciously out of love and affection. This helps you apply that attitude to your daily life and try to better yourself every morning.
10. Increases positivity
Positivity is linked to good humor and happiness. Pets give you a sense of well-being that helps you see things differently.
There are surely many more benefits and reasons to have a pet, but it is true that these 10 best encompass and demonstrate everything an animal can bring to your life.
If you have a pet, tell us: what other benefits does your dog or cat bring you at home?
María Martínez, licensed veterinarian specializing in behavioral medicine in Madrid
Clínica Veterinaria Malasaña
Madrid 28004