Nothing compares to the joy of coming home to a loyal companion. The unconditional love of a pet can do more than keep you company. Pets may also decrease stress, improve heart health, and even help children with their emotional and social skills.
An estimated 68% of U.S. households have a pet. But who benefits from an animal? And which type of pet brings health benefits?
Scientists are looking at what the potential physical and mental health benefits are for different animals—from fish to guinea pigs to dogs and cats.
Research on human-animal interactions is still relatively new. Some studies have shown positive health effects, but the results have been mixed.
Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure. Other studies have found that animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost your mood.
“There’s not one answer about how a pet can help somebody with a specific condition,” explains Dr. Layla Esposito, who oversees NIH’s Human-Animal Interaction Research Program. “Is your goal to increase physical activity? Then you might benefit from owning a dog. You must walk a dog several times a day and you’re going to increase physical activity. If your goal is reducing stress, sometimes watching fish swim can result in a feeling of calmness. So, there’s no one type fits all.” Know more: https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets
The Rio Grande Cancer Foundation’s Good2Know Classroom Series is offering a free class that outlines the benefits of service dogs and emotional support animals, May 16, 2024, at 6PM. Pet expert, Jeannette Katt will share her many experiences over her 25-year career working with organizations and individuals who partner with animals for health and wellness. She will also offer guidance about the different categories and criteria for registering animals for each service. Call 915-562-7660 to reserve your space.

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• Emotional Health