Are pets good for your health? Pets have been shown to improve heart health, reduce stress, and calm owners. They can also be beneficial for those with diabetes or stroke recovery. In addition, they can also be a social activity. You can spend time with your pet, and even join a pet-loving club, if you choose to.
NIH funding large-scale surveys to find out the range of pets people live with
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) does a good job of funding the best research projects in the world. However, they’ve taken a bit of a beating in the media recently. In the wake of a series of scandals involving researchers in the agency’s Division of Human Research Protections, NIH officials are trying to quell rumors of corruption and abuse. They’ve also started a new program to encourage research on human-animal interactions.
The NIH’s biggest competition is the Department of Defense, which has been wooing universities and hospitals in recent years. NIH’s competitive edge is the ability to tap into the nation’s largest pool of research dollars. To that end, the agency has established a centralized grants payment system operated by the Division of Payment Management.
Lower stress
A growing body of research suggests that pets can have a positive impact on our mental and physical health. They provide emotional support, reduce loneliness and anxiety, and help to improve our overall well-being. Having a pet can also lower our blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
A recent meta-analysis of 17 academic papers found that pets can help reduce stress. The researchers looked at several types of animals, including dogs, cats, and goldfish.
Interacting with a dog can decrease cortisol, the hormone that is released when you are stressed. Taking care of a dog for three months, or even just playing with one, can lower your blood pressure, and have a positive impact on your heart.
Improve heart health
Pets can improve heart health, especially when they are part of a healthy lifestyle. They can reduce stress, help with weight control, and improve your mental and physical well-being.
Studies show that owning a dog can lower your risk for heart disease. It can also lower cholesterol levels, which can prevent strokes. In addition, pets can make you more physically active. You will be more likely to walk or play with your pet and get plenty of exercise.
Pets can also decrease your risk of depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that owners of cats and dogs have less feelings of social isolation and loneliness. These feelings can contribute to depression and heart problems. Having a dog can also lower your blood pressure and triglyceride levels, two factors that increase your risk for cardiovascular problems.
Socialize with other pet owners
There is a wide array of ways to socialize your pet. This can include going on trips, joining a local dog club, or even signing up for online communities that cater to pet lovers. Getting the requisite exercise is also a top priority. In addition to the usual suspects, puppies and kittens are a good bet.
The best part is, they will get to socialize with their newfound peers. One of the most satisfying parts of pet ownership is the bonding between owners and their pets. It also helps that most people love animals. As a result, they will do just about anything to spend more time with their canine or feline family member.
Calming effect of cats on owners
A new study has demonstrated that cats have a calming effect on humans. This was corroborated by a study which tracked the stress responses of 120 married couples. It also found that those with a cat in tow had a happier marriage and recovered faster from a stressful situation.
What’s more, it is not surprising that a cat is one of the most reliable companions in life. Not only are they highly intuitive, they are also empathetic creatures. They may even be able to pick up on some of the subtle nuances of their human masters.
Horseback riding helps with stroke recovery
Horseback riding can be a good option for stroke recovery. Many studies have shown it to be effective, helping patients with gait, balance, and cognition. Besides providing an enjoyable experience, horseback riding also offers the physical and mental benefits of exercise.
In Sweden, a study led by Professor Michael Nilsson found that horseback riding had a positive impact on recovery for stroke survivors. It was also found to increase grip strength and improve balance. Compared with standard care, a 12-week course of horseback riding improved postural balance, cognition, and gait.
Fish-keeping helps teens with diabetes
Keeping fish is an activity that can be both fun and educational. It helps adolescents manage their disease and provides a positive connection with nature. Researchers studied the effect of keeping fish on children and teens with diabetes. The study found that fish-keeping helped adolescents with Type 1 diabetes better control their disease. They also showed a higher awareness of blood glucose.
According to the study, teens with type 1 diabetes who kept a pet fish regularly had lower blood glucose levels than those who did not. This is because the animals reminded them to check their blood glucose levels. Additionally, caring for an animal reduced stress and taught them empathy.