Pet Owners Tend to Be Happier, Healthier, Weigh Less
CNN’s Dr. Gupta has a new video out that reports that dog owners may have an edge in the battle of losing weight. A study done by Basset Healthcare in New York showed that people who walked their dogs not only lost more weight than those who did not have dogs to walk, but they were more likely to keep the extra weight off due to the fact they had a reason to continue the walking exercise.
Another article by BBC News shows that the companionship given by dogs or other pets makes people happier and less stressed overall. Studies show that pet owners tend to be healthier members of the population, having lower blood pressure and cholesterol than non pet owners. Many doctors believe the the stress relief may be one key factor for this trend.
Pets have also shown to have positive effects on those with serious illnesses such as cancer, and for older people who may live alone.
Pets also help young children to build their immune systems. A child who has grown up with a dog or cat is much less likely to have allergy problems as an adult.
I know from personal experience that when I got a dog, my depression seemed to lift. I think, more than anything, getting a dog helped me feel better from day to day. When I didn’t feel like getting out of bed, I had my dog help me get up and out and actually get moving. And, my dog’s love was always there, many times, he made me laugh, when nothing else seemed to work. I can honestly say that my dog is a big reason I am no longer depressed.
If you think getting a dog might help you, contact your local SPCA who can match you up with a dog or cat that will match your lifestyle. Much of the time, you can specify that you want a dog or cat that is already potty trained…much easier than working with a puppy if you’ve never owned an animal before. In addition, they can give you support through the first few months of living with a pet.