Anyone who meets me for two seconds knows I am beyond obsessed with animals. Research has my back with this dependance on my furry babies linking to an impressive amount of health benefits they bring to our lives!
Dogs, kitties, birds, rats, hamsters or even the pets we ride, horses, all contribute to our mental, emotional, physical and soul health. I’m a HUGE advocate for rescue and adopting those gorgeous babies out of the shelters. If you need any help, shoot me an email! Jill@nullJillLawrenceHealth.com and I’ll be your adoption wingman!
Top 5 reasons pets are the best medicine!
1- Belonging and Purpose
Our animals truly need us! They instill responsibility, routine and a reason to get up, get moving and remain accountable. They are always first to greet you at the door and watching you leave through the window. Just knowing an adorable pet is waiting at home for you after a long day, or even a great one, makes coming home that much more enjoyable.
2- Built in BFF and Companionship
No one to hike with? Not anymore! Wanna try a new restaurant and your favorite foodie is out of town? Well guess what, Fido is always in town and always down to try any scraps you’d like to share with him/her! Love to cuddle and your partner isn’t big on spooning…who cares when you got a pup face melted onto your chest!
3- Reduce Depression and Anxiety
Studies have shown being in the presence, talking to and petting an animal greatly reduces feelings of anxiety and depression. Happy hormones are released naturally and mindfulness, gratitude and being present is increased.
4. Your Social Wingman
Many people are fearful going places alone or starting up conversations with new friends. A dog is the easiest way to bond over a similar interest, or should I say obsession, and conversation easily flows between animal lovers. Dogs will get you outside for their daily walks and you will inevitably begin meeting neighbors, smile at others walking and meet other dogs that befriend your pup.
5. They Are Medicine to the Heart
Aside from healing a heart and filling it up on the daily, if animals could be prescribed by doctors to improve heart health, Big Pharma would be pissed! Petting and being in the company of dogs and cats reduces stress and anxiety and controls blood pressure better than drugs. It’s been proven animal owners have lower heart rates and blood pressure.
My rescue animals are my absolute favorite thing on this earth. They are what I wake up and go to bed with. My exercise buddies. Chill buddies. And are always beyond excited to see me when I get home. How did we get so lucky to enjoy this life with beautiful animals.
How have animals positively effected your life? I’d love to hear!!
And remember, always adopt! There are too many wonderful dogs, cats, rabbits, birds in the shelters that are looking for exactly you to love!
