Pet therapy
Pets are a popular addition to many households. So popular, in fact, it is estimated that 60% of Australian households have a pet (with 40% of households having a dog). But it’s not just dogs - there are people with cats, birds, guinea pigs, rabbits, fish, horses, and chooks. One of my colleagues has a snake!
While I am in the minority as I don’t have a pet (I don’t think it would be fair to have an animal considering my lifestyle; though I would love one, I don’t have the time to dedicate to a dog at this point in my life), I love spending time with the fur babies of the people in my life.
Considering nearly two-thirds of households own a pet, what’s all the fuss about? More than just companionship, there are plenty of reasons to have (or interact) with animals.
What are the health benefits of pets?
Pets have long been used as therapy aids in hospitals and nursing homes. During the 1960s, Dr Boris Levinson engaged in the first formal research into the impact of animals after he noticed that his mentally impaired patients were more relaxed when he had his dog with him. In 1964, Levinson coined the term ‘pet therapy’ and the practice has developed considerably in the last half a century and is now a recognised form of complementary therapy.
Non-clinical health benefits of pets include
Increased opportunities to exercise
More time spent outdoors
Increased likelihood of community engagement and socialisation
Added structure and routine centred around feeding and exercise requirements
Moments of joy
Boosted vitality
A sense of purpose in caring for another
Increased playfulness and laughter
Physically, regularly playing with a pet can
Decrease blood pressure
Lower cholesterol levels
Reduce triglyceride levels
Elevated levels of serotonin (the happy hormone) and dopamine (the feel-good hormone)
Assist with weight management
Mentally, having a pet in the house can also help
Manage depression
Reduce feelings of loneliness
Ease anxiety
Manage stress through sensory relief (stroking and touching is calming for both the pet and owner)
“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than you love yourself”
Owning a pet is a major commitment. Not only is there the upfront cost but there’s food, toys, immunisations, flea treatment, registration, annual check ups and accidents. With the average dog living for 10-13 years, the costs can add up. Then there’s the time investment. Having a pet is a relationship and every relationship requires attention.
