Children:
Animal ownership is shown to have physical, emotional, social, and cognitive benefits on children. Dogs, known stress reducers, can also improve kids’ emotional well-being, particularly in the forms of expression and control. Animals can also enhance kids’ social skills, maturity, and communication. Pets involve work, but this can also grant children a form of purpose, which therefore boosts their self-esteem and confidence. Regardless of which way you spin it, pets are a great addition to the life of a child, and can have long-term benefits, too!
Young Adults:
They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. So they can help keep you healthy as you mature into adulthood. Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship.
Middle Age:
Whether it is supporting kids at home with an animal or bringing a pet into the office to brighten your day, there are numerous benefits to surrounding oneself with furry friends at this age. In a study where dogs were brought into the office at work, employers reacted with a reduction in stress levels and an increase in morale. Animals, particularly dogs, can also improve lifestyle choices through motivating exercise and a structured routine. Additionally, post-pandemic in the age of working from home, there has never been a better time to add a friend into the home and gain companionship throughout the day.
Elderly:
Elderly adults can thrive with the addition of a pet at home. The companionship and reduction of loneliness can bring numerous benefits, such as improved vital signs, lower anxiety, and even lower pain levels. A comforting presence, a reason for laughter, and a reason to have a structured routine are all benefits of animal ownership for the elderly, all with real health benefits. Whether interactions are through therapy or ownership, the advantages of animal interaction for the elderly are undoubtedly great. Cats are an especially great fit for the elderly.
