Health Benefits Of Pet Ownership
Fitness. Pets need regular activity and, if a dog becomes your pet of choice, you’ll also be signing up for brisk dai- ly walks to help your furry friend keep in shape. In turn, you’ll also feel the benefit of regular, low-impact exer- cise. According to a recent survey, 36 per cent of pet own- ers said that having a pet has helped them lose weight. Who needs a personal trainer? Social. Believe it or not, having an animal can even have an impact on your social life… in a good way. Walking the dog around the local park or taking it to obedience lessons are just two settings where you’ll have the opportunity to meet new faces and interact with people you might not otherwise have come into contact with. And don’t be sur- prised if you’re stopped by strangers in the street who are eager to pat your furry friend and find out more about her. Childhood learning and responsibility. Having a pet in the home is a great way for children to learn valuable life lessons in a fun, rewarding way. From the daily responsi- bility of feeding, exercising and caring for the animal to understanding more about illness and loss, it can equip your children (or grandchildren) with the emotions to cope better with important life events as they grow up. Companionship. The sheer presence of a pet in the home can boost your mood, especially after a hectic day at the office or even following a difficult conversation. The stresses of life can melt away as soon as you walk through the front door and see your beloved pet, desperate for your affection. Said animal will also be your go-to com- panion of choice to watch a movie with or cuddle up to read a book with on a cold winter’s day. What’s better than a furry hot water bottle who listens to every word you say and doesn’t answer back? Mental health. Not only do pets provide companionship and help improve your physical health, they can also provide therapeutic and emotional benefits. According Do you have pain while reaching or bending? If you are not moving like you once were. Please don’t hesitate to come in for a check up and get back on track to feeling great again. Call the clinic nearest you today!
to Ingrid Collins, a consultant psychologist at the London Medical Centre, “A pet is better than Prozac. Animals have a completely different agenda to humans, and bring things back to basics. They want comfort, feeding and love. In return, they give huge affection.”
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