CATEGORY HEADER WELLNESS Compared to men, women are twice as likely to develop depression. This may be due to the sociocultural norms today’s women face. In most cases, women are the primary caretakers within the home, as well as working full-time jobs and juggling numerous other responsibilities. This lifestyle brings on much anxiety, which could lead to depression. Many studies indicate that pets are powerful forms of stress relief. They can help lower not only blood pressure but also harmful stress hormones like cortisol, which is associated with depression and anxiety. In turn, pets elevate beneficial hormones like oxytocin, which is linked to happiness and relaxation. Coming home everyday to a wagging tail is the ultimate mood booster for women!
2. Pets Promote Exercise
Sadly, cardiovascular disease and stroke cause one in three women’s deaths each year. There is some evidence that owning a pet, especially a dog, is associated with lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In addition to the social support they provide, a dog offers motivation to get out and get moving daily. People who own pets tend to exercise more. This is also a great way to stay connected to the outdoors. Exposure to nature can reduce hypertension and improve vitality and mood. Walking, jogging or hiking are a few activities to partake in with Fido to help lower blood pressure and keep your heart healthy and strong!
3. Pets Are Social Magnets
There’s no doubt that pets will improve a women’s social life. Dogs make good icebreakers because of their friendly social nature. This helps to overcome the barriers humans often put between themselves and strangers. Researchers have found that strangers offer more smiles and friendly glances to people with dogs. They are even more likely to approach and have a conversation with someone with a canine companion. Popularity in dog parks, pet-friendly restaurants and stores, “yappy” hours and various animal-related events are booming in our culture today. These four-legged fun activities are a great way to get women out into the community and interacting continuously with others.
4. Pets Awaken Maternal Instincts
Many women would agree that caring for a pet brings about their maternal instincts. A woman has a biological need to nurture. When a pet enters her life, there’s a great likelihood that she will care for it as if it were her child. Adding a pet into the household a few years before having a child may be a
A PET PROVIDES Comfort AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE THROUGH ALL THE Emotional TIMES.
58 SASS MAGAZINE | SASSMAGAZINE.COM
P H O T O G R A P H Y: N E E D P H O T O G R A P H E R
1. Pets Are Great Stress Relievers