And it's not just the elderly who profit from the company of animals; studies suggest that children who are exposed to cats and dogs at an early age are less likely to develop allergies later in life – and not just pet allergies, but common allergies such as dust and ragweed, as well. What's more, children who are raised with two or more pets are less likely to develop asthma and have lower incidences of hyperactivity than those without furry friends.
Children will learn to nurture their pet
Pets are also great for introducing responsibility into a child's life, and in turn boosting their self-esteem. They've proven beneficial to children with learning disabilities and behavioural issues, too. "Some children feel more comfortable around animals than they do adults, because they're non-judgmental. A child struggling with reading will read aloud to a dog, whereas they might not with an adult, or alone," Schneider explains. Research also shows that teaching children to care for a living thing leads them to be more co-operative and sharing, and they develop more well-rounded social skills overall.
Explore your options and lifestyle
But if your hectic lifestyle doesn't allow you to properly care for a higher maintenance pet like a dog or a cat, investing in an aquarium might be the best way for you to reap the mental health benefits of animal-human interaction. They have been studied for their positive effects on sufferers of Alzheimer's disease, hypertension and even patients awaiting dental surgery. If colourful fish can induce a hypnotic-like state in people fearing the drill, imagine what they can do for you after a long day at the office.
But pets aren't for everyone, and it's important to consider that before you rush out and get a cat for your high blood pressure. "There are studies that show decreased levels of anxiety, depression and loneliness in pet owners – but these are people who like animals. There aren't any studies that show what animals do to people who don't," Schneider says.
Read more:
• 10 tips on adding a dog or cat to the family
• How my dad and his cat got unhealthy together
• 5 health foods that are new to you
Page 2 of 2
