What are pets?

A pet is a domesticated animal kept primarily for pleasure and companionship. pets are usually considered to have
eye-catching appearances, intelligence, and relatable traits. Pets are often seen as loyal companions, especially dogs and cats. Their show of absolute love and affection towards their owners can do more than keeping them accompanied. Studies show pets may decrease stress, improve heart health, and even help children with their emotional and social skills.

Health benefits of having a pet

Physical benefits:

• The research was done on teens diagnosed with type 1diabetes, they were divided into two groups, teens in group one were each given a pet fish, they were to look after it by feeding it daily and changing the water once every week. This was paired with the children reviewing their blood glucose (blood sugar) logs with parents. Researchers tracked how regularly these teens checked their blood glucose. These results were compared with teens who weren’t given a fish to care for, fish-keeping teens were more disciplined about checking their own blood glucose levels, which is vital for maintaining their health.
• Teens who care for an animal tend to have stronger social relationships. What’s more, a study from Tufts University reported that caring for a pet can enhance teenagers’ connections to their societies. The study also found that high levels of attachment to a pet in late adolescence were related to feeling connected with others, feeling empathy, and having more self-confidence.
• Pets provide us with more opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialise. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels. As a result, a teen is less likely to be a victim of several physical health problems such as obesity and diabetes
• They can also dramatically improve immunity and prevent allergies. A study found that children ages 5 to 7 from pet-owning households attend school three weeks more per year than those who don’t have pets, as the more pets you have earlier in life, the fewer allergies you will develop, all this is due to a slow and gradual process known as ‘natural immunotherapy’.

• Playing with a pet can increase levels of oxytocin, a stress-reducing hormone, and decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol. As a result, the teen is less likely to face severe anxiety and depression. A study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology indicates owning a pet can have a positive impact on a person’s self-esteem, among other psychological benefits, decrease loneliness and even make a person less introverted.
• Pets also help those who feel cut off from others due to the grip of their mental illness and the type of connection they feel with a pet helps to bridge this gap, especially given the presence of the internet and other technological forms of disconnection.
• Pets require daily care. This creates a regular routine for their caretakers. Setting a timetable for when you or your child should feed, exercise, and clean up after your pet will help build responsible conducts and provide a sense of organization for your child. The organization is important for our mental health. It creates stability and a sense of control over our lives. It is easier to deal with unpredictable situations when there are other constants in place.