Social isolation and depression are a real threat as we age. If you are afraid that your parents may be suffering from isolation, consider talking to them about the benefits of pet therapy. Owning pets is not only a way to alleviate loneliness but also gives purpose to our lives as we dedicate ourselves to our furry friends.
The Physical Benefits of Owning a Pet
One of the most obvious benefits of owning a pet is the health aspect. Pets are best known to reduce stress in people. Their presence has a calming effect on us and increases our serotonin levels. Stress can lead to several different health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. Owning pets also promotes a healthier lifestyle in us. By having us bring it out on walks or to play in a park we are more encouraged to get out of our houses and exercise. Those who care for a pet also end up caring better for themselves as well, not only through exercise but also by eating better and doing more things around the house. Through pets, we see the importance of a happy and healthy life.
Companionship
There is a reason that a dog is man’s best friend and that’s because nothing loves us the way dogs do. The loyalty that comes along with having a pet may be something that your parent may have been missing. Pets offer great company and comfort to those who are living alone or are limited in mobility and cannot visit the people they love as regularly as they once did. Pets also encourage other forms of interactions to be formed by presenting us with more opportunities to socialize when we’re out walking them or down at the park. There are so many other ways to meet new people through pets including charitable events run by people in the community for pets. Pets make us feel worthy and loved and can bring purpose back into our lives.
New Interests
Having a pet may also spark some new interest in us we did not know was there. For example, if you had previously avoided exercising outdoors, your pet may get you interested in doing so. Or you may find that you enjoy participating in dog competitions or training. You may also find that you are more inclined to keep the environment around you clean and may want to volunteer to clean up the park where your dog loves to frequent. Some hospitals even have programs where people can bring their pets down to visit patients.
Protection
Rest easy knowing that your parents are being taken care of. Just as we take care of our pets, they have ways of taking care of us as well. Guard dogs, even small dogs and cats can be a great alarm system, sensing strangers and intruders from far away. Some animals have been trained specifically to look out for different health issues from a dangerous spike in blood sugar levels to several different diseases all through smell.
Pets add life and love to our lives and make us feel fulfilled and needed. Pet therapy can do wonders for anyone in search of some extra comfort. Regency Pointe is a pet friendly community that welcomes both you and your furry friend to begin this new journey in your lives. Feel free to contact us to find out more about what we have to offer.
