Introduction: There's good reason that we call our pets best friends. They bring us joy, love and companionship, but also a variety of health benefits which can improve our wellbeing in unexpected ways. Pet ownership can positively impact our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. It can reduce stress and anxiety and boost our immune system. This listicle will explore the surprising ways in which owning a dog can make you healthier and happier.
- Improve Memory
Pet ownership can also help improve memory. According to a University of Liverpool study, pet owners older than 50 years performed better on memory test than non-pet owner. Pets provide mental stimulation that can help to keep our minds active and engaged.
- Create a feeling of safety
Pets are a great way to provide security and comfort in your home. Dogs in particular can serve as an alarm system that protects us from potential intruders. Additionally, owning a pet can make us feel less alone at night and provide a sense of comfort and protection.
- Give Emotional support
Pets are also a great source of emotional support for people who suffer from mental illness or trauma. Therapy dogs, such as those trained for PTSD and anxiety, can provide support and comfort to sufferers. Additionally, simply spending time with a pet can help alleviate feelings of sadness or loneliness.
- Promote Exercise
Pets, especially dogs, require regular exercise, which can help promote physical activity in their owners. A pet can inspire us to exercise and live a healthy lifestyle.
- Reduced Stroke Risk
You may not believe it, but owning a dog or cat can lower your stroke risk. A study conducted by the American Heart Association found that owning a cat or dog could lower your stroke risk up to 40 percent. This is due to the fact that pets can lower bloodpressure, reduce stress and promote physical exercise.
- Improve Mood
Possessing a pet has a positive influence on our mood. Spending quality time with your pet can enhance feelings of happiness. This is because it has been proven that pets release oxytocin. Also known as the “love hormone,” this can improve our moods and well-being.
- Boost Immune System
Owning a dog or cat can boost your immunity. Research has shown that children raised with pets in their home are less likely than other children to develop allergies and asthma later in life. Pets expose us to bacteria and germs that can strengthen our immunity and make us resistant to disease.
- Provide Unconditional Love
One of the most beautiful things about owning a pet is the unconditional love they offer us. Pets never judge or hold grudges. The love us just as we are. It can be particularly comforting in times of stress and hardship.
- Lower Risk of Depressive Disorder
A pet can reduce your depression risk. A study conducted by the University of Missouri found that pet owners were less likely to suffer from depression symptoms than non-pet owner. This is because pets provide companionship, promote physical activity, and release endorphins, all of which can help improve our mood and well-being.
As you can see, owning a pet can profoundly impact our health and well-being. Pets offer many benefits, including reducing anxiety and stress as well as promoting physical exercise and improving mood. Consider carefully which pet is best for you. It doesn't matter if it is a cat, dog or any other type of pet. Their love and companionship are truly priceless.
Frequently Asked Question
What type of pet is the best for someone who has allergies?
Consider getting an hypoallergenic pet if allergies are a problem. A sphynx or a Poodle would be good choices. These breeds tend to have less dander. They can also be easier for allergy sufferers to tolerate.
How can I be sure that my dog is getting enough activity?
Every day, set aside a time for your pet's exercise. It can be as simple as taking a walk with them or playing with their toys. Hire a dog-walker or pet-sitter to make sure your pet gets the exercise it needs.
How do I prevent my dog from damaging the furniture in my home?
To help keep your furniture safe, provide your pet with a variety of toys and scratching post to divert their attention. Use deterrent sprays and covers to protect furniture.
What can I do if a pet is showing aggression?
Ask a professional trainer to help you if your dog is displaying signs of aggression. Take steps to protect yourself and those around you.
How can I introduce other pets or humans to my pet?
Take time introducing your pet to other pets or people, and supervise all interactions. Use positive reinforcement methods, such as praise or treats, to make your dog feel more comfortable.
FAQ
What is pet insurance?
Pet insurance provides financial protection for your pet's health and safety in the event that they become injured or sick. It also covers routine vet care such as vaccinations and spaying/neutering.
It also pays for emergency care if your pet is injured or has an accident.
There are two types to pet insurance
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Catastrophic Insurance - This insurance covers medical expenses for your cat if it sustains severe injuries.
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Non-catastrophic-This type covers routine veterinarian costs, such as vaccines, microchips, spays/neuters, and other veterinary services.
Certain companies offer both catastrophic coverage and non-catastrophic. Others offer just one or the other.
You will need to pay a monthly premium to cover these costs. The amount you spend on your pet’s care will determine the cost.
This insurance can cost you a lot depending on which company you choose. It is a good idea to shop around before making your purchase.
There are discounts offered by some companies if you buy more than one policy.
You can transfer an existing pet insurance plan from another company to a new one.
If you decide to not purchase any pet insurance you will be responsible for all costs.
However, there are still ways to save money. Ask your veterinarian for discounts.
You might be disregarded if your pet is seen often.
If you prefer to pay for a pet, there are many options.
You must always read the fine print, regardless of what type of insurance policy you purchase.
It will inform you of the amount of your coverage. If you don't understand something, contact the insurer immediately.
What are your responsibilities as a pet owner?
A pet owner must love his/her pet unconditionally. They should also provide for their basic needs such as food, water, shelter, etc.
They should teach them good behavior. A pet owner should not abuse it or neglect it.
He must also be responsible enough for it and clean it up.
How to feed a pet.
Cats and dogs consume four meals per day. Breakfast is made up of dry kibble. Lunch is usually some kind of meat like chicken and beef. Dinner is often a meal of vegetables, such as broccoli or peas.
Different dietary requirements are required for cats. Canadian foods are best for cats. These foods include salmon, tuna, chicken, and sardines.
Your pet may also enjoy eating fruits and vegetables. These should not be allowed to your pet too often. Overeating can cause illness in cats.
You should not allow your pet to drink straight from the tap. Instead, let your pet drink water from a bowl.
Make sure that your pet gets enough exercise. Exercise can help your pet lose weight. It also keeps him healthy.
You should clean up after your pet is fed. This will stop your pet getting sick from eating harmful bacteria.
Make sure to brush your pet every day. Brushing your pet regularly can help remove dead skin cells that could lead to infection.
Make sure to brush your pet at minimum twice per week. Use a soft bristle hairbrush. Do not use a wire brush. It can cause irreparable damage to your pet’s teeth.
Always supervise your pet while he eats. He needs to chew his food properly. If he does not, he might choke on bone fragments.
Keep your pet away from garbage cans. This can be harmful to your pet's overall health.
Never leave your pet alone in an enclosed space. This includes cars, hot tubs, and boats.
What kind of food should my dog eat?
Your dog should be fed a balanced diet.
There are many protein-rich foods, including chicken, beef (fish), eggs, and dairy.
Other foods high in carbohydrates include vegetables, fruits, breads, cereals pasta, rice, potatoes and beans.
Low-fat foods include lean meats and poultry, fish, whole grains, seeds, and nuts.
Before giving your dog different types or foods, it is a good idea to check with your vet.
How do I train my pet?
Consistency is crucial when training a pet dog or cat. You need to be consistent in how you treat them. If they think you're mean they won't trust you. They might start to believe that everyone is mean.
If you don't treat them with respect, they will not know what else to expect. This could cause them to become anxious around others.
The best way to teach a dog or cat is by using positive reinforcement. They will be motivated to perform the same behavior if you reward them.
When they do something wrong, it is easier to punish them than reward them.
To reinforce good behavior, treats such as toys and food are a great way to reward your efforts. It is also a good idea to praise when possible.
To help your pet learn, clickers are a great tool. Clicking can be described as a technique that allows you to click on a button to inform your pet that he did a good job.
This works because the animals know that clicking is "good work".
Show your pet the trick first. Next, reward your pet by asking him to perform the trick.
If he does it correctly you should give him praise. Don't praise him too much. Make sure you only praise him once.
It's also important to set limits. Don't let your pet jump up on other people. Do not let your pet bite other people.
Be sure to keep your pet safe so he doesn't get hurt.
Which pet is your favorite?
The best pet you can have is the one you love. There is no right answer here. Every person has his own opinion about which pet is the best.
Some believe that cats are better than their canine counterparts. Others say that dogs are more loyal and loving. Others disagree and argue that birds make the most wonderful pet.
You must choose the right type of pet for you, regardless of what breed.
If you are outgoing and friendly, a dog may be right for you. If you're shy and reserved, a cat would suit your needs best.
Also, consider the size of your apartment or house. A smaller apartment means you'll need a less large pet. A larger house, on the other hand will require you to have more space.
Last but not least, pets require a lot of attention. Pets need to be fed frequently. They must be taken on daily walks. And they need to be brushed and cleaned.
You'll be able pick the best pet for you if you have all of these knowledge.
Are there any signs my dog may be ill?
There are many symptoms that indicate that your dog is sick. Some symptoms are:
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Lethargy
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Fever
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Weight loss
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A decreased appetite
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Coughing
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Difficulty Breathing
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Bleeding around the nose
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Urine or stool contaminated with blood
These are just a handful of examples. Your vet will be able to tell you what to watch out for.
Statistics
- Monthly costs are for a one-year-old female mixed-breed dog and an under one-year-old male domestic shorthair cat, respectively, in excellent health residing in Texas, with a $500 annual deductible, $5,000 annual benefit limit, and 90% reimbursement rate. (usnews.com)
- For example, if your policy has a 90% reimbursement rate and you've already met your deductible, your insurer would pay you 90% of the amount you paid the vet, as long as you're still below the coverage limits of your policy. (usnews.com)
- A 5% affiliation discount may apply to individuals who belong to select military, law enforcement, and service animal training organizations that have a relationship with Nationwide. (usnews.com)
- Here's a sobering reality: when you add up vaccinations, health exams, heartworm medications, litter, collars and leashes, food, and grooming, you can expect a bill of at least $1,000 a year, according to SSPCA. (bustle.com)
- Reimbursement rates vary by insurer, but common rates range from 60% to 100% of your veterinary bill. (usnews.com)
External Links
How To
How do you choose the right name for your pet?
Name selection is one of most important decisions when you adopt a pet. Names should reflect who your pet is and their personality.
You need to think about how others may refer to you. Finally, think about how you'd like to be referred. You might be more inclined to call yourself "dog", or "pet".
These are some tips to get you started.
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Name your dog a name that reflects its breed. If you're familiar with the breed (e.g. Labradoodle), search for names associated with it. Or ask someone who knows dogs well to suggest a name based on the breed.
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Be aware of the meaning behind the name. Some breeds are named after people or places, while others are just nicknames. The name "Rover," for example, was given to a Labrador Retriever because he was always running around!
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Now think about what you'd like to call yourself. Is it more fun to be called "dog" than "pet"? Would you rather call your dog "Puppy", "Buddy" or "Buddy?"
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Make sure to include the owner's name. It is a smart idea to give your dog a name that includes both your first and last names. However, it doesn't mean you should limit yourself to just including the names of family members. Your dog could become part of your family as well!
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Keep in mind that many pets have multiple names. A cat may have many names, depending on where she is located. When she visits her friends, she might be called "Kitty Cat" but "Molly", at home. This is especially true if the cat lives outside. Cats often choose to adopt their name according to their surroundings.
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Be creative! There are no rules stating that you have to stick to one naming convention. Be unique and memorable in your choice.
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You must ensure that the name you choose isn't already owned by another person or group. That way, you won't accidentally steal someone else's identity!
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It is not easy to choose a name for your pet. Sometimes it takes time to determine whether a name is right for your dog. Keep trying until you find the right name!