It has been seen time and again that pets can have an effect on the health of their owners.

Pets give their owners unconditional love this can improve a person’s mood and help to keep depression at bay.  It is hard to be depressed with a dog or cat giving you its love and attention.

A pet can have a soothing effect on their owners, reducing the owners stress.  Many times this has the effect of lowering blood pressure and heart rate.  People in high stress jobs may benefit from having a pet to help take away some of the stress.

People who have pets can deal with the loss of a loved one better than people who have no pets.  Pets help to stave off the loneliness after such a loss, by giving the person something to care for.  This helps to keep the person from dwelling on the loss.

Many pet owners get exercise by getting out with their pets, which may not have happened otherwise.  This exercise helps them to maintain better health.  Even the medical community is now realizing the benefits of pet therapy. Pet therapy is now allowed in some hospitals and nursing homes.

Having a pet is not for everyone because they do require care and there are costs involved, but if one is able it can have a health benefit.

So if you know of someone who can’t have a pet but you think would benefit from contact with one ask if it would be all right for your pet and you to visit. You might be surprised how much this may benefit everyone involved.