Benefits Between Pets and Humans

Pets can be beneficial to your health and well being, as much as you are to theirs. Did you know that being around a pet for just 15 minutes can lower blood pressure, heart rate, reduce stress levels and lift your spirits? Animals can make you feel less lonely, less depressed, distract you from pain and ailments, as well as be entertaining and stimulating to the other senses. They have a lot of love, warmth, and companionship to give.

Most pets, especially dogs and cats, have the ability to sense and feel when something is wrong. When you're feeling sad, depressed, or hurt, they seem to know it, and will do just about anything in their power to try to comfort you and make you feel better. A pet can put a person's needs aside, where they think less about themselves and more about the animal.

It has been tried and tested in many areas to see how well this action is performed, and there is now areas in hospitals and nursing homes that use this technique, called pet therapy. The preferred use of the term is called Animal Assisted Therapy.

However, what is good for you is also good for your pet. Your pet also has days when they are feeling blue, and or possibly achy or depressed about something. Let them know you care about them as much as they care about you. Pets depend on you to care for them when they need it. Your pet needs you for so many things during the course of their life, if they are to maintain a happy and healthy life. They have most of the same needs as you do, yet they can't always do for themselves as a human can. This is where you need to show your pet just how much they mean to you. It's not much, just a few minutes of your time each day will in most cases do just fine. Just a few short minutes of gently playing with your pet, giving it attention by pampering it with a bath, brushing, or simple talking and petting time, helps to relieve their stress, sadness, irritability, and loneliness. It's a great pick me up and adds a highlight and special feeling to their day.

Pets need to feel needed, but they also need to feel loved and cared about as well. If you give 100% to your pet, they will give 200% in return. So, the next time you see your pet looking depressed or moping about, take the time to stop and give them that little bit extra. Chances are, the next time you're feeling that way, they will come to you to return the favor.