Whether you own a dog, cat, horse, budgie, or any pet, your well-being is set to improve, especially as you age. There are many mental and physical health benefits to be gained from choosing a furry, scaly, or feathery pal as your best friend.

Blood pressure and heart health

Owning a pet can lower high blood pressure and reduce heart trouble. It’s thought people face less stress when they have an animal companion. At the same time, stroking or making a fuss about a pet decreases anxiety and the production of the stress chemical cortisol. As worrying is often the cause of rising blood pressure levels, it makes sense that anything you do to reduce anxiety will help. Also, the calming nature of pets increases the happy hormones, dopamine, and serotonin, which provide a feel-good factor and decrease the odds of heart trouble.

Loneliness

You can be lonely at any age, but solitude is usually associated with the elderly who may not see others often. Isolation makes people unhappy and can lead to depression. Get a pet, though, and you will have constant company.

Additionally, taking a dog for a walk helps you connect with others. Most dog owners like to chat, sharing pet stories, and often team-up to walk together. Sometimes, they also socialize with fellow walkers when they’re not out with their furry pals.

Alzheimer’s

Owning a pet can’t prevent Alzheimer’s. However, studies show it can make living with the condition easier. Sufferers have fewer outbursts, which are typically periods of extreme stress, when there’s a pet around. Furry animals like cats and dogs are particularly soothing. At the same time, the presence of pets that are easy to look after can help caregivers cope. Their calming quality makes dealing with challenging work easier.

Anti-allergy

You’ve probably heard people avoid pets due to allergies. However, having a dog can help children grow up allergy and even eczema-free. Possibly, the dirt canines bring into the house aids a healthy immune system.

Pets are excellent companions, reducing stress and the diseases accompanying heightened anxiety. However, you don’t need an illness to benefit from pet ownership. They are fun to be with, whatever your condition.