{"id":514,"date":"2017-06-20T17:22:29","date_gmt":"2017-06-20T21:22:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.beverlyhillsvets.com\/blog\/?p=514"},"modified":"2024-04-03T11:25:45","modified_gmt":"2024-04-03T18:25:45","slug":"pets-and-stress-relief","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.beverlyhillsvets.com\/blog\/pets-and-stress-relief\/","title":{"rendered":"How do I Love Thee? At the Heart of Pets and Stress Relief"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"People who share their lives with animals understand true love, but that doesn\u2019t mean pet owners are immune to stress, anxiety, or depression. Indeed, many of us experience downturns at one point or another. But always at the center of a downcast gaze is a non-judgmental, comforting, and stable friend. Yes, pets have a significant impact on reassuring \u2013 or at least distracting \u2013 us, but what\u2019s really at the core of pets and stress relief?<\/p>\n

Count the Ways<\/h3>\n

While the sources of stress are seemingly endless, so are the many ways to combat it. Many people open an orange or sit in the sun. Others spend all weekend at a plush resort to melt troubles away. However, of all the ways to reduce our emotional and mental anguish, we believe time spent with animals tops the list.<\/p>\n

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Pets and Stress Relief<\/h3>\n

At the University of Miami, researchers have proven that people who own pets are more socially involved and conscientious than those without that unique human-animal bond. Similarly, it\u2019s widely accepted that students sharing space with pets have higher self-esteem, lower rates of depression, and are less lonely. This may stem from childhood connections to animals. Kids who grow up<\/a> with cats and dogs are also found to be more empathetic, perhaps because close physical contact helps form a deeper realized sense of attachment.<\/p>\n

Hypertension Troubles<\/h3>\n

The truth behind pets and stress relief hinges on actual blood pressure readings of pet owners. It\u2019s well known that animal interaction lowers blood pressure and cortisol (the stress hormone) even better than medication.<\/p>\n

But Wait, There\u2019s More!<\/h3>\n

Pet owners, especially those with dogs, are more likely to get moving. Daily walks<\/a> or visits to the park are 50% more likely to happen, locking in the recommended dose of exercise (for pets and people alike!).<\/p>\n

Getting out with a pet also increases exposure to other like-minded people, shortening a perceived gap between them. Making friends and adding to a self-sustaining social network all add to a higher quality of life.<\/p>\n

Need More Reasons?<\/h3>\n

The following are additional reasons the combination of pets and stress relief has such a far-reaching impact:<\/p>\n