June 2 through 18 is Pet Appreciation Week. Mitchell Veterinary Services wants to take a minute and celebrate our four-legged friends. Cats and dogs provide us with many mental and physical health benefits. Give yours a hug while you read this!
- Pets act as companions and family members
- They provide company and prevent loneliness
- They are non-judgmental and provide unconditional love and affection
- Pets reduce stress, anxiety and depression
- Petting a dog or cat has been shown to lower blood pressure
- Studies have found that heart attack patients with dogs survive longer than those without
- Pets in the house can lessen the likelihood of developing allergies or asthma in children
- Pets provide structure and routine to your day
- This is especially important for people who are living with mental diseases or stressful lifestyles
- Pets improve your mood
- Pets calm and relax people
- Playing with a dog or cat can increase dopamine and serotonin
- Pets promote social interaction
- Walking a dog helps you to meet new people
- There are clubs geared towards dog and cat enthusiasts, which are a great way for people to bond over a shared interest
- Pets increase your activity level
- Taking a dog for daily walks promotes weight loss for people, in addition to keeping your canine healthy
No matter what kind of a day you’ve had, your pets can make you happier and healthier. We appreciate cats and dogs for all the ways that they enrich our lives.