The Power of Pets and Your Health

Cuddly, loveable, fun, active, and non-judgmental—the COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on how our furry friends are indeed a person’s best friend. As cases of COVID-19 surged across the United Since in March 2020, so did the number of pet adoptions. According to industry data from PetPoint, animal welfare organizations across the country saw a spike in adoptions during the second half of March, with an estimated national adoption rate of 58% at the beginning of the month, jumping to 85% by the end of the month.

The reason says Tufts’ Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, “No matter the size, shape or species, animals can help humans through these stressful times we are experiencing.”

Pre-pandemic, researchers have found a positive link between health and pet ownership, whether you own a dog, cat, or even a barnyard animal. Barring any allergies, pets can help improve mental health, increase physical activity and overall health, and social interaction.

How Owning a Pet Improves Mental Health

Studies show that our bodies have a chemical reaction and release oxytocin when we pet a furry loved one—blood pressure lowers, heart rate slows, breathing becomes more regular, and muscle tension relaxes during and after—all signs of reduced stress. Also, their companionship helps us manage feelings of loneliness and depression.

How Owning a Pet Increases Physical Activity and Overall Health

The American Health Association (AHA) complied the following reason why pets, in particular owning a dog, can be good for your heart and overall health:

1. Pets increase opportunities for us to get outside and exercise, rain or shine. For example, dog owners are 34% more likely to fit in 150 minutes of walking per week recommended by the AHA than non-dog owners.
2. Studies show that dog owners may live longer than non-dog owners.
3. Dog owners are 31% less likely to die from a heart attack or stroke than non-dog owners.
4. People with previous heart events who had a dog living at home had a 65% reduced risk of death.
5. Dog owners who walk their dogs regularly face one-third the risk of diabetes of those who don’t own a dog.
6. Dog parents are more likely to reach their fitness goals than those without canine companions.

How Owning a Pet Increases Social Interaction

Beyond companionship, owning a pet can help kick-start the essential benefits of human interaction. According to the AHA, dogs help ease people out of isolation or shyness, and studies have found that owning and walking a dog increases social interaction. Pet ownership can be an instant icebreaker and lead to talking to others to exchange tips, tricks, and funny stories.

But What if You are Allergic to Animals

If you have allergies to pets that aren’t life-threatening, you can take several steps to reduce the allergens in your house to reap the benefits outlined above.

The Humane Society of the United States suggests implementing the following four steps to reduce the symptoms:

1. Create an “Allergy Free” Zone. Strictly prohibit the pet’s access to the allergic person's bedroom.
2.  Use HEPA Air Cleaners and Clean Your House Regularly. Use high-efficiency HEPA air cleaners in bedrooms and throughout the rest of the home. Clean your house frequently and thoroughly to remove dust and dander, washing articles such as couch covers and pillows, curtains, and pet beds.
3. Clean Your Pet Weekly. To decrease the level of allergy-causing dander, bathe your pet every week.  Ask your veterinarian for guidance about safe bathing.
4. Try Treatments. Additional treatments for allergies to pets include allergy shots, steroidal and antihistamine nose sprays, and antihistamine pills. It is important to find an allergist who understands your commitment to living with your pet. In several cases, the benefits outlined above of having a pet outweigh the drawbacks.

Even though owning a pet can be a big responsibility, the time and energy spent taking care of a furry friend ultimately benefits you as well.