Pet/Human Bond Encourages Pets and Pet Parents to Get Active, Reduce Stress and Live Healthier Together

Research Proves the Benefits of the Pet/Human Bond

New research is proving the physical and emotional benefits of pet ownership for adults, seniors and even children:

Studies have indicated that pet parents have lower blood pressure and plasma triglycerides than non-pet owners.

Heart patients are nearly five times more likely to survive a heart attack if they own a pet.

Just two brisk 15-minute walks with a dog each day satisfies the standard for aerobic exercise for humans and pets and if you do not have time to exercise, at least hire a dog walker for your pet. Daily exercise can lengthen a dog’s life.

Other research has connected pet ownership with better psychological health and enhanced self-esteem and social interaction.

Pets are Healthy for Kids and Seniors

Kids and seniors often benefit most from their relationships with dogs and cats:

Reading books to pets make kids more self-confident and improves their reading skills.

Kids who suffer from attention deficit disorder (ADD) learn to concentrate by focusing on a pet.

Children who own pets score significantly higher on empathy and pro-social orientation scales than non-owners.

Kids ages 11-16 with pets have better ability to understand non-verbal communications.

Autistic children reap the rewards of daily interaction with their furry friend. A pet helps facilitate social interactions plus it creates an emotional and educational “bridge” between a child and other people by becoming a modality for communication.

Seniors who have pets visit physicians 21 percent less often than those who do not have pets.

Elderly pet parents are less likely to feel lonely.

Pets Enjoy Health Benefits Too

Dogs and cats enjoy health benefits as a result of their relationship with their pet parents:

Studies show that 30 percent of dogs and 25 percent of cats are overweight which contributes to a shorter lifespan and an increased risk of arthritis, cancer, diabetes and other health concerns.

Walking is a great way for your pet to get exercise and achieve ideal weight. Studies show that dogs and cats who maintain their weight live a longer life.

Pets thrive with daily physical and mental stimulation from their owners because it builds confidence and trust.

Food and treats are great ways for owners to connect and bond with their pets.


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References

Del Monte Foods
Bryson Thornton, 412-222-8661
Bryson.Thornton@delmonte.com