Is there anything better than coming home and knowing that your pet is there to greet you with genuine enthusiasm? Dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, or even large animals like horses: besides being loyal companions, they are also our therapists. Here are 5 benefits a pet can bring to your physical and mental health:

Reduces stress, improves mood.
Just a few minutes with our furry (or feathered) friend are enough to make us feel calmer. Several studies have shown that interacting with companion animals reduces stress, blood pressure and the risk of heart disease. They promote a sense of well-being and help to ease loneliness. The simple act of petting them releases endorphins, chemicals that make you feel relaxed and happy.

Promotes physical activity
Walking, playing and taking care of a pet are activities that keep us more active. This interaction not only benefits our health but also strengthens the bond with our little friend. If you have a dog, walk him at least 30 minutes a day, enough time to reach the daily level of physical activity recommended by the World Health Organization. Take the chance to connect with fellow dog owners and pet lovers.

Helps with personal development
Taking care of a pet awakens emotions, increases the sense of responsibility and dedication, a consequence of daily care with food, health and hygiene. This helps develop skills like patience, empathy, organization and discipline. Owning a pet can be an enriching and educational experience, especially for children.

Strengthens the children's immune system
For years, it was thought that exposure to pets could trigger allergies in children. Today, it is known that it is just the opposite: the earlier children live with animals, the lower the possibility of developing allergies or respiratory diseases, such as asthma. This happens because the immune system is strengthened. But keep in mind that this does not apply to children or adults who already have allergies.

A therapeutic companion
Pets can play an important therapeutic role: they help reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress. In fact, animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is widely used in cases of autism, cerebral palsy or intellectual, physical or emotional disorders.

Looking after a pet is a big responsibility, but when you consider all the benefits above, they make all that hard work worthwhile. If you don't have one yet and are thinking about having one, don't just make a decision on impulse. Having a pet implies financial costs, time available to take care of it, having an adequate space and compatibility with our lifestyle. A pet is or will be one of the best companions in your life, faithful until the last moment.