6 Benefits of Pet Ownership for Women

Owning a pet has plenty of benefits, especially for women. Here are some tips on how pet ownership can boost females’ overall wellness and quality of life!

1. Pets Are Great Stress Relievers

Compared to men, women are twice as likely to develop depression. This may be due to the sociocultural norms today’s women are faced with. In most cases, women are the primary caretakers within the home, as well as working full-time jobs and juggling numerous other responsibilities. This lifestyle brings on much anxiety, which could lead to depression. Many studies indicate that pets are powerful forms of stress relief. They can help lower not only blood pressure but also harmful stress hormones like cortisol, which is associated with depression and anxiety. In turn, pets elevate beneficial hormones like oxytocin, which is linked to happiness and relaxation. Coming home everyday to a wagging tail is the ultimate mood booster for women!

2. Pets Promote Exercise

Sadly, cardiovascular disease and stroke cause 1 in 3 women’s deaths each year. There is some evidence that owning a pet, especially a dog, is associated with lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In addition to the social support they provide, a dog offers motivation to get out and get moving daily.  People who own pets tend to exercise more. This is also a great way to stay connected to the outdoors. Exposure to nature can reduce hypertension and improve vitality and mood.  Walking, jogging or hiking are a few activities to partake in with Fido to help lower blood pressure and keep your heart healthy and strong!

3. Pets Are Social Magnets

There’s no doubt that pets will improve a women’s social life. Dogs make good icebreakers because of their friendly social nature. This helps to overcome the barriers humans often put between themselves and strangers. Researchers have found that strangers offer more smiles and friendly glances to people with dogs. They are even more likely to approach and have a conversation with someone with a canine companion. Popularity in dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants and stores, “yappy” hours and various animal-related events are booming in our culture today. These four-legged fun activities are a great way to get women out into the community and interacting continuously with others.

4. Pets Awaken Maternal Instincts

Many women would agree that caring for a pet brings about their maternal instincts. A woman has a biological need to nurture. When a pet enters her life, there’s a great likelihood that she will care for it as if it were her child. Adding a pet into the household a few years before having a child may be a beneficial way for a female to awaken these caregiving needs. In addition, with pet ownership comes added responsibilities, establishing a routine, decision-making, compromising between a spouse/partner and much more.

5. Pets Provide Emotional Support

It’s natural for women to experience many emotions in life. Hormones like estrogen are often to blame. In fact, estrogen has been linked with mood disruptions that only occur in women. When those inevitable emotions take over our minds, a pet is the perfect companion to have around. Petting a dog or cat has a profound therapeutic effect on both human and furry companion. Whether you’re just feeling down or facing a serious crisis like financial troubles or grieving a loved one; a pet provides comfort and unconditional love through all the emotional times.

6. Pets Encourage Living in the Moment

With a never-ending to-do list, it can be hard for women to still the mind and be present in the moment. Pets teach us many valuable lessons in life, one of which is living in the now. Animals do not regret the past or worry about the future, as females often do. As our minds continuously race with thoughts throughout the day, our pets enjoy life in the moment. Animals also teach us about finding joy in the simple pleasures and they give love without judgment.  Ultimately, both women and men alike can gain some valuable life lessons from our animal companions. Pets help us to be better people all around!

Now, who’s ready to adopt a puppy?