4 Ways Pets Improve Longevity

Pet ownership can help promote longevity through a range of physical, emotional, and social benefits for overall health and well-being. We partnered up with Small Door Veterinary to look at 4 different ways owning a pet can help you live a longer, healthier life.

1. Our pets help us de-stress

Pets can provide companionship and support in difficult times.

Activities like feeding a pet or taking them for a walk can promote mindfulness and reduce stress levels. Pets can also be funny and entertaining, and can provide a source of laughter and joy, which can help to reduce stress. Petting or cuddling with a pet can release oxytocin, a hormone that can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

Spending time with your pet not only increases serotonin and dopamine levels, but also lowers your blood pressure and levels of cortisol.

2. Pets connect us to a social support network

There are many studies that have shown that people who have fulfilling relationships with family, friends, and their pets are happier, have fewer health problems, and live longer. Pets can also provide social support for people who may be socially isolated or lack a strong support network. A common feature among Blue Zones, areas of the world in which people live exceptionally long lives, is a healthy social network.

Pet ownership can create a sense of community among pet owners, particularly in areas where there are pet-friendly businesses or events. Taking a pet to a social event, such as a pet-friendly festival or a dog park, can help promote social interaction and give people the opportunity to meet new people. This can lead to a sense of belonging and social support.

3. Increased opportunity for exercise

Pets, particularly dogs, require regular exercise, which can help to increase physical activity and reduce stress levels. Dogs are great walking companions and require daily walks, which can help pet owners get regular exercise. Walking with a dog can also make the activity more enjoyable and less of a chore. Check out this guide from Small Door on the best ways to exercise with your dog.

Many pets also enjoy playing, which can be a fun way to get some exercise. Throwing a ball or a Frisbee for a dog or using a laser pointer to play with a cat can help to get the heart rate up and burn some calories. According to the CDC, having a pet is also linked to health benefits such as decreased blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels.

Staying active with your pet can help meet daily exercise goals that keep our bodies healthy and active for a longer healthier life.

4. Pet ownership can stimulate healthy brain activity

Owning a pet helps keep our brain active and stimulated, which leads to a longer, healthier life.

Caring for a pet, such as training them or teaching them new tricks, can help to keep the brain active and engaged. This can be particularly important for older adults or those with cognitive impairments. Remembering to feed a pet or give them medication, can help to improve memory recall and cognitive function.

As discussed above, Pets can help to regulate emotions and reduce stress and anxiety, which can improve brain function and cognitive performance.

In partnership with Small Door Veterinary

Take charge of your aging journey today with an Aging Wellness Assessment at Modern Age and a membership at Small Door.

Modern Age customers can receive $75 off your membership at Small Door with code MODERNPETS. Click here to get started.