How do pets affect your mental fitness?

Psychological, physical, and age-specific benefits

Did you know that August – sometimes belovingly called “Dogust” – recognizes the universal birthday of rescue dogs? To celebrate, we’re sharing several ways pets impact their people’s mental fitness. Whether our animals come with fur, scales, or fins, pets bring us endless love, laughter, and often a good dose of mischief!

By the way – we’ll feature the pets of Savor Lining as we go along for your daily boost of smiles!

Benefits for mental fitness

Oxytocin, serotonin, and prolactin – sometimes referred to as “happy hormones” – increase when pets and humans interact with each other (Christian Health). These hormones can decrease feelings of depression and anxiety. Companionship can also provide comfort to people experiencing loneliness.

 

Ongoing research substantiates the positive effects of pets on mood. The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) reports that pet parents are more likely to form meaningful social connections through their companion animals. Additionally, the quarterly Healthy Minds Poll from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) reported that among survey respondents:

• 69% reported reduced stress and anxiety
• 66% said their pets provide a calming presence
• 63% expressed feeling that their pets are true friends

 

Benefits for physical fitness

Walking, exercising, and playing with pets helps you incorporate movement into your daily routine. In fact, UC Davis Health reports that more than 60% of dog owners reach the recommended weekly amount of exercise, or roughly 150 minutes of moderate activity.

Movement and healthy weight are just the beginning; having pets present can lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of heart disease. In a study of 240 married couples, those with pets saw smaller increases in heart rate during stressful situations (Cleveland Heart Lab).

Similarly, pets can support older adults by helping increase their physical activity levels and providing them with a sense of purpose caring for the animal.

Kids benefit, too!

Children raised around pets are more likely to learn how to maintain a schedule because animals need daily care. Forming a routine also builds confidence in kids and helps them develop a sense of responsibility (Nationwide Children’s). When change happens, having a structure in place can provide youth with stability and a sense of control.

Moreover, caring for animals helps children become better socialized around their peers. Having a pet requires empathy and attention, which in turn may grow communication and relationship skills.

Resources

With so many positive outcomes for your mental fitness, we want to share three pet resources we’ve personally found useful. 

1. Have you and your family seen the TV show The Pack on Amazon Prime? If so, you’ll immediately know Derby the surfing goldendoodle and Kentucky Gallahue. A few years ago, they published a storybook called The Adventures of Derby California: Derby Learns to Surf, which shares how they met and got their matching blue mohawks. It inspires little ones to try new things and grow in their confidence!

   As a fun aside, Evelyn also interviewed Kentucky on the Building Culture podcast and Darby got to meet Derby in person in San Diego!

   

   Darby the chiweenie (Evelyn Kwong, Marketing & Growth)

2. For those in the greater LA area, a fantastic local community to follow is Los Angeles Pups. Every week, they share dog-friendly activities and breed-specific meetups. From outdoor movie nights to launches of new pup businesses, there is something for everyone!
   
   
3. Finally, if you are open to welcoming a new pet into your life, many sites such as Petfinder (where I found Darby) and Best Friends Animal Society are reputable organizations to go to. Although many shelter animals may have come from tough backgrounds – Darby, for example, was found in a hoarding situation – they are quick learners and truly grateful for your love.