The Health Benefits of Pets

Curb stress and manage anxiety by spending more time with the perfect companion

There are numerous physical health benefits to owning a pet, according to clinical counsellor Dr. Patricia Nitkin. These include lowered blood pressure and heart rate, decreased cortisol levels (the “stress” hormone), and increase in oxytocin (the “love” hormone).

Importance of companionship

And the health benefits aren’t just physical: “Pets offer critical companionship and, as mammals, we cannot survive without it,” says Dr. Nitkin. Pet owners also have greater social interaction with others, further decreasing loneliness and easing social anxiety.

Pets in the office

Don’t have a pet of your own? Workplaces are starting to allow pets in the office, improving employee productivity and providing a sense of calm. Be sure your colleagues aren’t allergic to pets before bringing them in!