In our pet-centric culture, it’s not surprising that a variety of businesses allow their employees to bring their four-legged best friends to work. Amazon, Google, Bissell, Nestle Purina, and Ticketmaster are leading the pack when it comes to this trend. They believe it results in lower stress levels, higher productivity, and greater retention. Of course, we’ve known that pets are good for you for a long time, but now, there’s scientific proof!

Relaxing Together

For those of us who have to leave our pets at home during the work day, the good feelings start to flow as soon as we arrive back home. Simply seeing your pet does a lot of good for your heart and soul, and being close with them, feeling their heartbeat, and listening to them breath releases endorphins. Cortisol, the stress hormone, is replaced by oxytocin, the love hormone.

What happens to a bad mood in the presence of pets? It seems to disappear entirely! Anxiety, depression, and loneliness also dissipate.

Slowing Down

When your heart rate slows down, your muscles become less tense and blood pressure decreases. For those with cardiovascular health concerns, pet ownership becomes an incredibly supportive form of therapy.
In addition, simply being exposed to the hair, dander, and bacteria of your pet has the potential to strengthen your immune system. For kids, this is very helpful as they grow and develop into future pet owners.

Cut from the Same Cloth

People who love a certain kind of pet are drawn to others of the same ilk. Have you seen dog owners get along famously at the park? Well, they have a lot to discuss! Cat owners are also attracted to those who appreciate feline sensibilities.

All of this points to the conclusion that pets are good for you because they help strengthen alliances. Sometimes, they’re the “glue” that holds relationships together. Pets help us socialize, get out of the house, and meet others with similar interests.

It’s True, Pets are Good for You!

Pets can also get us moving. Physical and mental exercise is important to all pets. In taking care of the pet we love, we’re also taking care of ourselves. Daily walks can help keep extra pounds off, minimize health risks, and get the blood pumping
– good for pets and people alike!

Spreading the Love

We mentioned the love hormone oxytocin earlier. Would it surprise you to know that our pets also experience a spike in oxytocin levels when we’re close to them? The human-animal bond goes far beyond the idea that pets are good for you alone. In other words, the connection between pets and their people is positive, long-lasting, and mutually beneficial. Being together is good for everyone!
Our veterinarians and staff members can happily attest to the fact that pets are good for you – we don’t know what we’d do without them! As always, please let us know if you have any questions or concerns about your sweet pet.