The Power of Pet Therapy

After one year of missing and mourning the passing of my dog I was grieving my loss and to my surprise after swearing up and down I would never go through the pain of losing a beloved family pet again I fell in love with another fur friend who has now become an addition to my family. 

What are the benefits of having a faithful companion, who is always happy to spend time with you, ecstatic to see you, affectionate, gives unconditional positive regard, and non-judgemental unconditional love - does this sound like the perfect therapy session - then you must also consider pet therapy and the therapeutic benefits of owning a pet!

What are some other benefits?

In one study, pet ownership has been shown to have a positive influence on cognitive functioning and decrease cognitive decline in late adulthood.

And in another study, the American Heart Association states, “Interacting with dogs can boost your production of “happy hormones” such as oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine [leading] to a greater sense of well-being and help lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol . . . [as well as lowering] blood pressure and cholesterol, [easing] depression and improv[ing] fitness.

Studies show that people who walk their dogs may get significantly more exercise than those who don’t. And there’s another mental health benefit:  Pets like dogs, can also help us feel less social anxiety and interact more with other humans decreasing loneliness, depression and social isolation. 

What about living longer?

In a peer-reviewed paper in the American Heart Association journal, Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, a research team headed by Caroline Kramer of the University of Toronto reported that dog ownership is associated with a 24 percent decrease in mortality rates.

While taking care of a pet can be a major commitment of time and resources for many people it’s definitely worth it! 

Cheers to all the love, support and eternal friendships pets provide!