Are you curious about the intersection of pet ownership and health in affluent lifestyles? There’s a notable correlation between being an affluent person with a pet and how that affects overall health. Discover what those relationships are and the benefits of pet ownership to your mental and physical well-being.
Pet Ownership and Affluent Lifestyles
According to a 2020 study, 75% of households with pets have a net worth of more than $220,000. If you’ve ever considered getting a pet, you have likely calculated all the costs and what’s required to care for it. That’s why affluent homes typically have animals; they don’t have to worry as much about housing a four-legged friend, which includes medical expenses, pet insurance, grooming, and the necessary supplies.
Affluent households often have more flexibility in their schedules. That means they have more opportunities to spend time with their animals and give them the attention they need.
Many have also discovered the potential health benefits of pet ownership. In affluent households, health is often at the top of the priority list. A dog, for instance, gets the owner outside in the fresh air and sunshine and quality exercise from the required walking they require.
Things to Know About Owning a Pet and Your Health
You know how important it is to stay healthy, including physical and mental health. Some studies suggest that having a pet helps with cardiovascular health, meaning a healthier heart. In addition, if your pet of choice is a dog, you can expect to get, on average, about 20 minutes of extra physical exercise each day. It is beneficial for keeping you conditioned and maybe even helping you lose weight if that is part of your physical health goal.
While you’re likely getting your steps in with a dog and maybe even losing some extra weight in the process, your pet also provides you with a better mental health state. The companionship alone from your furry or scaly critter boosts the quality of life for many who have experienced pet ownership.
Benefits to Physical and Mental Health Because of Pet Ownership
You see how beneficial it is to own a pet, but now you are wondering what exactly those benefits are. Aside from physical exercise, lowering cardiovascular risks, and making you feel like you have a better overall quality of life, there are more specific advantages to both your physical and mental health.
● More social interaction and more opportunities to attend events.
● Emotional support from a pet can boost immunity and allow you to recover from sicknesses faster.
● Kids with pets tend to have a greater immune system.
● Reduced stress levels.
● Boosts in energy and cortisol through pet interactions.
● Dopamine and serotonin release put you in a better mood.
● Lower risk for depression and anxiety
- Increased sense of purpose and self-esteem caring for something
With the plethora of benefits to owning a pet, it’s clearer to see why affluent households are likely to have one. It’s a small price to pay to care for the animal, considering everything you can get back in terms of possible physical and mental health improvements.
Before getting a pet, it’s important to consider your budget because you don’t want to take on something you can’t afford or don’t have the time for. However, there are plenty of options for selecting a critter. Even if it’s not your standard cat or dog, the same benefits and advantages can be felt for caring for other species of animals.
