For many years, the benefits of pet ownership have been researched and confirmed as offering physical, psychological and social benefits. An animal companion such as a dog or cat can increase your activity level by walking the animal, playing catch and even dangling string. According to North Shore Animal League America, if you walk a dog for 20 minutes per day for five days per week, you can lose an average of 14 pounds in 50 weeks. The Center for Disease Control says owning a pet can lower your blood pressure, cholesterol and fat levels while also reducing loneliness, anxiety and depression.
Step 1
Choose the type of pet that will fit your lifestyle. Visit your local humane society or pet stores to adopt the pet of your choice and then bring your new companion home.
Step 2
Develop an exercise schedule of at least 20 minutes per day. Exercising your companion animal will also benefit your own cardiovascular health while reducing your stress levels and weight. According to North Shore Animal League America, the exercise will also help you sleep at night.
Step 3
Bring your dog -- if you chose a dog -- to your community's dog park. This is a place to socialize with other dog owners while your dog increases her own socialization skills as well.
Step 4
Pet your new animal as much as possible to strengthen your bond. According to the PAWS website, petting an animal decreases your heart rate. The interaction from petting also enhances your dopamine and endorphin hormone levels, which improve your feelings of happiness and well being.
Step 5
Spend time with your companion animal. According to PAWS website, animals offer psychological benefits of reducing loneliness and depression.
Step 6
Make an appointment with a veterinarian to have a wellness checkup and vaccinations brought up-to-date. Keeping your companion animal healthy will give you a sense of feeling needed while also improving life for your pet.
Tips and Warnings
- If you know that you'll be unable to spend a significant amount of time with a pet, get a fish. According to PAWS, watching a fish swim decreases your heart rate, which lowers anxiety levels.
- Do not bring a cat home while you are pregnant, unless someone else can change the litter box. The parasite Toxoplasma gondii is shed from cat feces, which can cause toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection that can jeopardize the health of your unborn baby. Always know the temperament of the animal you bring into your home. If it's a new puppy or kitten, be sure the mother and father are present so you can evaluate their temperament and appearance. An aggressive animal increases your and your family's risk of being attacked. An aggressive dog could also attack a dog or stranger at the dog park. Not exercising your pet could lead to negative behaviors, such as destructive chewing and barking.
Things You'll Need
- Leash (dogs)
- Collar (dogs and cats)
- Water and food bowls
- Animal food
- Access to Humane Society or pet store
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