People who have never owned a pet may find it difficult to understand why some pet owners become attached to their pets . However, those who’ve raised a pet see them as a member of the family . It is only natural for humans and pets to rely on each other for mental and emotional support. While dogs are the most popular pets, cats and fish are the second and third most popular choices.

Is having a pet overrated?
Pets are often a topic of debate, with some people speaking about them with disdain while others claim they prefer pets to children. There is no definitive answer when it comes to the benefits of having pets. Despite the personal nature of these views, there is a strong connection between humans and their pet animals. Scientific research has shown that pets, especially dogs, can benefit their owners significantly.

Benefits of having dogs as pets
Many veterinarians and pet lovers have conducted extensive research to establish the many quantifiable advantages humans derive from dogs. The research aimed to establish the correlation between owning a dog as a pet and its impact on a human’s physical, mental, and emotional health. This research has reduced the skepticism towards pets and made people more accepting of having dogs as pets to a great extent. Here are some of the indisputable science-based benefits of having dogs as pets:

Improvement in hypertension
Having a dog as a pet can directly improve one’s basic health parameters and vital statistics. When a person interacts with a dog, takes care of it, and looks at them, their body suddenly produces oxytocin – a hormone that urges one to feel positive emotion. While oxytocin is connected with trust and bonding between a child and a parent, it can also lower blood pressure.

Reduces stress
Cortisol is one of the many hormones that cause stress in humans. Hugging or petting a dog reduces cortisol levels in the body, which reduces stress and helps dog owners/parents relax.

Becomes physically active
Taking care of a dog requires careful planning and consistent effort. Dogs need to stay active to maintain good health and alertness. Hence, a responsible dog owner must take them for regular walks, play with them, and ensure they get enough exercise. In this process, the pet parent also stays active.

Ability to sense symptoms of diseases and alert owners of impending danger
For many years, it has been widely recognized that dogs possess the ability to detect when their owners are about to have seizures and alert them . However, recent research has revealed that dogs can also use their intuition and sense of smell to identify potential health issues in their owners. Some of the conditions that dogs (including medical service dogs) can identify in advance include:

• Migraines
• Narcolepsy
• Seizures
• Anxiety attacks
• Low blood sugar

Dogs have the ability to sense when their owner may experience a narcolepsy attack. In such situations, dogs have been known to start barking at their owner or licking them. They may also constantly nudge or refuse to leave their side. Some dogs may even stand in order to prevent their owner from falling.

Improves feelings of ownership and responsibility
A responsible pet parent cannot bear to see their dog neglected, ungroomed, or unfed. A dog can communicate its sadness to its owner, making it almost impossible for a pet parent to ignore. Most dog owners love their dogs unconditionally, directly making them responsible for their health and well-being. Dog parents are usually meticulous about vaccinations, vet visits, and grooming appointments. These are visible and science-based proof that dogs can help make humans more responsible.

Develops immunity to allergies
Pet hair and dander are major household allergens. Children who grow up with pets from infancy are more likely to develop an immunity to allergies and recover from them quickly compared to those who grow up without pets.

Reduces anxiety
Anyone who has had a hard day will usually look forward to reaching jome and spending time with their dogs. It is known to be a great stress buster and can help alleviate anxiety. This can lead to feeling more confident and assured.

Improves mood
Dogs respond to their owners with excitement and affection, jumping around them and not settling until they play and cuddle them. They lick them, fall over them, and wag their tails. Their happiness is contagious, and the feelings are transmitted to the owner, immediately improving their mood.

Eliminates loneliness
Loneliness has become a growing problem in many homes and communities. However, having a dog can become a loving companion. Dogs are known for their playful nature and the tendency to follow their owners around the house, constantly seeking affection and attention. Caring for them can provide a sense of companionship and reduce feelings of loneliness in the process . Many people find themselves talking to their pets as if they were talking to another person, which is a healthy way to communicate and can improve their mental health.

Provides unconditional support
Dogs are extremely sensitive and can gauge their owner’s mood almost perfectly. If their parents are happy, they will jump and play along with them. If they sense that their owners want some alone time or peace, they will settle quietly at a comfortable distance and wait for them to call. Unconditional support without having to answer too many questions is one of the important benefits of having a dog as a pet.