Most people know that kisses, smiles and laughs come standard with pets, but did you know sharing your life with a furry friend can also lower blood pressure, increase physical activity and lengthen your lifespan?
There is a wealth of medical research that indicates living with a pet can be beneficial to your health. Take, for instance, studies done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute of Health, both of which showed that pet parents were found to have lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, all of which benefit heart health.
Research also shows that pet parents who have suffered heart attacks tend to have better recovery rates than those without pets, possibly due to the pet’s ability to reduce his parent’s stress level. Additionally, dog parents not only have a pet pal, but a personal trainer, too, in that most dogs need to be walked several times a day. Studies have shown that adults who walk their pups are less likely to be obese than those who pass the task off to someone else or do not have a dog. Achieving or maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent diabetes, stroke and heart disease.
Improved or maintained physical health is just another positive benefit of having four-legged friends, and another thing to celebrate during Pets Are Wonderful Month. We appreciate the opportunity to help keep your pet pal in optimal health, and look forward to seeing you soon!