After a long, stressful day, there's nothing
like coming home to
the unabashed love and attention of your beloved pet. But there’s more: Pets also promote good health and
positive development. From staving off loneliness to decreasing health risks such as high cholesterol and
heart risks, owning a pet — small or large — can significantly enliven everyday living.
FISH
—
Fish are often bought as a “test pet” for children petitioning for a hamster or dog, but may actually benefit
parents more than anyone else. Often likened to hypnosis, watching fish swim in an aquarium can reduce stress
in adults as well as lower blood pressure significantly.
RABBIT — Owning a pet rabbit is especially beneficial for children, who reportedly learn
to express themselves and relate better when attached to a pet like a rabbit. Taking care of the small animal
also encourages children to focus on responsibility through a fixed routine and learn to nurture and care for
others at a young age.
CAT
—
Keeping company with a feline friend has numerous advantages. Stroking a cat has been proven to lower blood
pressure and also lower triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood that contributes to the development
of cardiovascular disease. Having a cat before or shortly after a child is born also reduces the risk of them
developing animal allergies and asthma.
DOG
—
Fondly known as man’s best friend, dogs aren’t just loyal companions, but exercise enforcers as well. By
taking your dog for a routine walk or trip to the park, you too get to keep fit. And since exercise is an
effective stress reliever, walking your canine pal is as beneficial for you as it is for them.
HORSE — Horses are strong, stunning and surprisingly sensitive animals. Attuned to even
the most minute changes in humans, horses react to the mental, physical and emotional state of their owners.
This means that horse owners must work through any negativity, exercising self-control and discipline, to
effectively master their pet. •
