The healing power of your pets

Of course we treat our animals with love, but did you know they pay us back by giving us some incredible health benefits?

The UK is a country of animal lovers, with 53% of adults owning some form of pet. Compared to a population of 67.33 million people, there are 11 million domestic dogs and 11 million domestic cats in the country, with 8.3 million pets being acquired since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. Meanwhile, celebrities including James Middleton, Stacey Solomon and Lewis Hamilton have all opened up about their love for their furry friends.

It’s no surprise, then, that pets play an important role in our lives. According to one survey, four in 10 cat and dog owners would rather cuddle up on the sofa with their fourlegged companion than their significant other.

“It’s clear that the human-animal bond is very strong,” says Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy. “Pet ownership can have a range of benefits, such as boosting humour, social relationships, life satisfaction and happiness.”

But animal ownership isn’t, excuse the pun, a walk in the park, and there are lots of things to bear in mind before making the commitment. “Planning to start a family, finances and having enough time are just a few key considerations potential owners must take into account before investing in a pet,” says Adem Fehmi, canine behaviourist for Rover.com.

“If you want to reap the benefits of pet ownership but can’t fully commit to raising one full-time – whether that’s due to a lack of finances or space – you might want to consider becoming a sitter or walker.”

So, keeping all that in mind, let’s take a look at all the ways animals can improve our lives and wellbeing…

HEART HEALTH

For people who live alone, researchers have found that dog ownership can reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 36%. But it can have a positive effect for others too.

“While the act of stroking a dog can help to calm a person and reduce blood pressure, other aspects of caring for a dog can also be beneficial,” explains Adem. “One such aspect is frequently exercising your dog, with walking being a great activity for heart health and fitness.”

RELEASING HAPPY HORMONES

People with dementia may find that caring for an animal can boost self-esteem and independence as well as feelings of support.

“Studies have shown pets can help release ‘happy hormones’, which in turn can calm an individual – something which may be beneficial to those with dementia,” says Adem. “Additionally, pets have been shown to improve a person’s confidence and overall quality of life, whether it’s a pet visiting regularly, or even owning a pet if they’re able to. Many care homes now have access to assistance animals.”

SLEEPING SOUNDLY

Sleeping in the same room as your pet could leave you feeling refreshed come morning time.

“Dogs and cats can induce the production of oxytocin which can help to reduce stress and anxiety, creating a more relaxed state conducive to falling asleep,” says Theresa Schnorbach, Sleep Expert at Emma – The Sleep Company. “Sleeping with a pet can also provide a sense of security which can improve the duration and quality of sleep.”

SNIFFING OUT DISEASES

Dogs are known for their incredible sense of smell, with some having been trained to detect different diseases by sniffing alone.

“Some dogs have been able to spot cancers such as melanoma, prostate, ovarian, breast and lung cancer. However, this isn’t always reliable or accurate,” says Dr Lee. “Meanwhile, Labradors, Retrievers and Golden Retrievers have in the past identified urinary tract infections (UTIS).”

BATTLING GRIEF

Being around animals is a way to help boost your mood, and improve feelings of social support too.

“Having a pet can provide comfort and emotional support, counteracting feelings such as anger, grief and stress,” states Dr Lee. “With loneliness being a serious health problem, research suggests that pet owners are less likely to report feeling lonely than those who don’t own pets.”