6 Reasons Pets Are Good for You
Pets are great for your health, especially if you’re a woman over 60. It’s a fact. Don’t take my word for it – it’s been proven by medical professionals. Your furry friends are very good for you, which begs the question why pets are restricted in so many communities. But that’s a blog post for another day!
Physical Activity
Dogs go out for a walk to exercise and do their business. Walking is also great exercise for you. It’s good for your health. Of course, please check with your doctor first before starting any walking regimen. But if you have a dog, obviously, you’re going to walk the dog. With those daily walks, you are both getting physical exercise. And that’s a good thing!
Socialization
Dogs are social creatures by nature. On your walks, you’re likely to run into other people walking their dogs. The dog walkers, as they’re commonly referred to. It’s a chance to socialize not only your pet but yourself. Dogs sniff. People talk.
Some people prefer dog parks where both you and your dog can socialize. Some people prefer taking their dog to different places where you can take a leisurely walk. Many stores have water bowls outside for dogs – they expect people and their dogs to stop by. You never know who you will run into and strike up a conversation with. Again, it’s a social thing, which is good for you.
There are even dog meetups you can attend with others looking to socialize.
Stress
Pets are known to bring anxiety and stress levels down in people.
Stroking the fur of an animal can bring down your blood pressure or help to lessen an anxiety attack. That’s why there are therapy dogs that go to hospitals, nursing homes, airports, and more.
Companionship
Pets make wonderful companions. Cats, dogs, miniature horses, whatever your preference. There is another living, breathing thing to keep you company. Someone to talk to. (Yes, I talk to my dogs. I even tell them “I love you,” “Be good girls and mommy will be back, before I leave the house!”)
What can I say? It’s true.
The bond with your pet is a strong one. Your furry friend relies on you for everything. Your pets will hang out with you when you’re sick, watch TV or sit with you while you’re on the computer. In fact, they often know you’re sick before you do! They’re great company!
Depression
Animals have been known to help those who suffer from depression. Having an animal around is a good feeling, a pick-me-up. I’m not saying it’s going to cure your depression – that’s for the medical experts – but it’s nice to know another living, breathing creature who cares about you is there.
And your pet cares about you. The bond we have with them is truly amazing.
A dog can give you a reason to get out of bed in the morning. It must be walked and fed. And walking the dog gets you out of the house, which you otherwise might not do. They’re great for those who need a push and might otherwise stay in bed. Some communities even have dog parks or dog parks nearby.
Animals help those over 60 with loneliness. Some baby boomers are lucky and have large families full of children, grandchildren and more while others go it solo. They have small, if any, family left. Having a pet helps to ease the loneliness. Some people may laugh at this, but a true pet person gets it. They totally understand and are on the same page.
Service and Esa Dogs
Service and Emotional Support Dogs are wonderful for those who need them.
I’ve seen service dogs specially trained to deal with autistic children, alert their owners to a seizure or a diabetic attack and even take clothes out of the dryer. And I’ve seen emotional support animals help to ease anxiety in a loved one who was diabetic with high blood pressure and heart issues.
People may start out thinking they saved the animal but, as it often turns out, the animal saved them.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Are you a baby boomer looking to buy a home in an active adult or 55+ community with or without pets? Are you planning a move in the near future? Do you have any questions that might help make your home purchase easier? Let’s talk about it!
I dont have the desire to travel at this time. I have 2 dogs and 2 cats, extended family passed on and no children. I do have my husband however our interests sometimes differ. We do both love pets. They give me a reason to live, get up and get out. I love them to pieces! I highly recommend having a pet or a few. If I do want to travel I can arrange it but I am quite happy as a retired person, an artist and photopgrapher. We have often traveled with the fur babies in tow and it has gone very well. I feel each pet I’ve had in life is like an angel to me, A traveling companion in life that God has provided me with.
I know how you feel, Judy. Each pet I’ve had has been a blessing in my life. I’m the crazy dog lady where they come before everything! I’m glad you have your cats and dogs with you, and they get you up and out. They hold a very special place in your heart.
For folks over 60 who hesitate to have a dog or cat full because they want to travel, consider fostering a rescue. It’s a great way to get a “pet fix” while helping shelters/rescues make room for other animals, and it usually can be worked out to fit with your schedule! Check with shelters/rescues in your area to see how you might help. It’s a win-win.
What a great idea, Julie. That’s a win-win all around.
My partner and I bought a beautiful Labrador Retriever, and we had her for 14 years. We are hikers, and we went hiking with our dog every weekend and vacation (in addition to daily exercise), and she was so easy to travel with. She died about 10 years ago and I still miss her. But since she died, we started traveling to places by plane, and we realize that if we bought another dog, we couldn’t travel like that anymore. We don’t know anyone who is willing to look after a dog, and I would never leave my pet in an animal shelter or “hotel.” It’s quite a responsibility to get a dog!
It sounds like you had your beautiful Labrador Retriever and you shared a wonderful life together. Everyone knows their own lifestyle and limitations. It sounds like you know yours, and now is not the time for another dog. It is definitely a big responsibility having a pet! Enjoy your trips!