The Effects of Animals on Human Health and Well‐Being The Effects of Animals on Human Health and Well‐Be | Page 25

Having a pet is also a powerful way to keep yourself mentally functional.
Across the board, pets of all types have proven to improve the health of
patients with mental health challenges. From treating those with post
traumatic stress disorder, to helping those who struggle with depression, pets
are a helpful addition to combat a range of disorders. Not only do these
findings bring hope to those with health challenges, it also means that every
day anxiety and stress can be greatly decreased by spending time with your
pet.
6. Saving an Animal from a Shelter
Finally, another major positive if you’re looking at adopting a shelter pet is the
knowledge that you saved a life. Dogs, cats, and other animals in animal
shelters are usually tame, and sometimes even trained. By adopting an animal
thats been abandoned, you are giving a good home to a living thing, plus
making room at overcrowded shelters. Unsurprisingly, pet owners who adopt
animals from shelters often speak to the animals undying loyalty and joy at
being adopted.
 Cons:
1. Responsibility
One drawback of getting a pet is an immediate increase in responsibility. Just
like a young child, pets rely on you for absolutely everything. Not only that, if
they have yet to be trained, they won’t understand your anger if they do
something wrong. If you are someone with an over scheduled life, or doubt
your children’s ability to step up to this responsibility, a small pet like a
hamster or mouse might be a better first step.
2. Allergies
Another drawback to pets in the home are allergies. Especially if you don’t
know what you’re allergic to, bringing a cat or a dog into your life can bring
unexpected hurdles. Keep in mind that allergies grow worse each time you are
exposed to an allergen, so spending limited time with animals in the past is
not conclusive proof you aren’t allergic. If you’re unsure of your animal