Pet Perks

I grew up with quite few pets in our home. We have rabbits, guinea pigs, dogs, and cats. I think I have had enough of them that for now I don't want any single pet at home. Maybe someday we will get one since my husband and son want a cat. Anyway, I heard that pets can help you feel better and even help improve your health. So here why I said so:

Pets are cute and cuddly, but what are their real benefits? Here are just a few of the ways pets can help you out:

~~ Pets improve your mood. Stroking, cuddling, and just being around a pet that gives unconditional love helps many people become happier. In fact, more than 65 percent of nursing homes have an animal program because they have been shown to lift spirits.

~~ Pets lower your blood pressure. A study was done comparing stockbrokers who suffered from hypertension. One group was put on a medication, and a second group was put on medication and given a dog or a cat. At the end of six months, the second group had significantly lower blood pressure.

~~ Pets promote exercise. Well, dogs do, anyway. A dog is a jogging partner that will never cancel on you. Studies have shown that dog owners go on more frequent and longer walks than non-dog-owners.

~~ Pets protect against allergies.This may come as a surprise to many people, but children raised in families with pets are far less likely to have allergies and as they get older.

Source: LDS Living Magazine