HEALTH NOTES

IF you’re thinking of getting a pet, you’ll probably be weighing up the pros of having a cuddly (or even scaly) new friend, with the cons of having to look after it. But have you considered the health benefits of owning a pet? A recent study found pet ownership could help save the NHS up to £2.45 billion a year, simply by reducing the number of times people visit their doctor. The calculation’s based on the influence that owning a pet has on mental and physical health, plus lower rates of illnesses and better wellbeing among pet-owners .

James Yeates, chief vet at the RSPCA, says: “Besides the enjoyment they bring, having furry friends in your home can have a number of health advantages.

Here are somereasons why pets can be good for your health... HOWEVER bad your day’s been, you’ll have someone who depends on you to shower you with affection. The British Medical Journal says the emotional bond between owner and pet can be as intense as that in many human relationships, and may confer similar psychological benefits. “Taking care of and spending time with a pet is a great way to give yourself some headspace to deal with life’s setbacks and challenges,” explains Eugene Farrell, a mental health expert at AXA PPP healthcare. THE responsibilities that come with owning a pet can give your day purpose, reward and a sense of achievement. Regular routines and rituals can help energy management and support mental space. The Dogs Trust also highlights that a good routine is vital for your dog’s wellbeing too. OWNING a pet can reduce your risk of developing heart disease. It may be that dog owners naturally do more exercise, but pets also play a role in providing social support, encouraging you to stick with a new habit or adopting a healthy behaviour.

Owning a cat has also been associated with a reduced risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and stroke, possibly due to the stressrelieving effects of animal companionship.

“Walking your dog can do wonders for your wellbeing, as it combines moderate exercise with taking a break from work or household chores and getting some fresh air,” says Farrell.

And Yeates points out: “Well cared for and responsibly raised pets can provide companionship as well as motivation to exercise, which is good for both physical and emotional health.” PETS can act as a social icebreaker between strangers, or as a catalyst for social interaction. Research suggests dog-walkers experience significantly higher social capital (interactions and relationships) than non-dog-walkers, meaning they’re less likely to be lonely.

And as new US research has found loneliness may represent a greater public health hazard than obesity, socialising clearly benefits health. “Pets provide their owners with companionship in their own right but they can also act as social catalysts by providing opportunities for social interactions,” says Yeates. People with pets are less likely to suffer from feelings of loneliness or social isolation.”

For more information, visit rspca.org.uk/ findapet