Tens of millions of people around the nation have pets. People love them, have fun with them, and often find them to be comforting companions. While they may bring some joy to our lives, there is another reason those who suffer from chronic pain may want to consider having a pet. Turns out, they may be great at helping with pain management, in addition to the many other benefits they bring to our lives.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pets can have numerous health benefits including lowering blood pressure, cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels, and they can decrease feelings of loneliness. They can also increase opportunities for getting exercise and engaging in outdoor activities, as well as provide more opportunities for socializing with others (1). Even without knowing these actual health benefits, millions of people with pets can attest to the fact that their pets make them feel better, bring them joy and comfort, and often give lonely people a sense of purpose.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Healthy pets healthy people.
http://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/health-benefits/