Is it a Good Time In Your Life for a New Pet?
There’s no harm in adding some cuteness to your life!
There are many exciting things that you can do after turning 50 and adopting
a pet definitely tops the list. Adding a furry new member to your home offers benefits like increasing your happiness and decreasing your stress level. A National Poll of Healthy Aging by the University of Michigan of about 2,000 participants between the ages of 50 to 80 years of age, found that at least 55% of them owned a pet. Regardless of the type of animal, these adults said that their pets were the primary reason behind their excellent
physical and mental health.
Let’s look at how pets improve the lives of those polled:
Based on polling, participants over 50 say that owning a pet makes them feel loved, helps them enjoy life and adds to a reduction in stress. They also give owners a sense of purpose while contributing to a more physically active lifestyle. Animals also provide emotional support to their owners.
There are many research-backed reasons why adopting a pet in your later years is a great idea.
Pets will make you feel less lonely.
They can be great companions. Their unconditional, uncomplicated love makes them your best friends. Also, one amazing thing about them is that they can understand your feelings because of their emotional intelligence.
Not having the best day of your life? Your canine buddy will figure that out and provide support to you.
Animals contribute to overall health
Just petting or playing with them can alter the production of the
hormones in your body. For instance, it can reduce the production of the stress
hormone called cortisol, while the stress-reducing oxytocin can be increased.
Animals have the capability of reducing your anxiety by relaxing your mind and
body. This could also impact stress-induced blood pressure. In fact, experts even
utilize this benefit in wellness programs in which people spend some time with animals to reduce their anxiety.
Which dog breed are the best pets to bring home as we get older?
Whenever possible, it is best to give a loving forever home to a rescue pet looking for a fur parent. If you are looking for breed recommendations, here are some dog breeds for your to consider:
Poodle: If you are looking for an easy to train dog, poodles are really smart and easy to care for. They need regular grooming but are otherwise great dogs for you to consider.
Cavalier King Charles: If you want a cute, loyal, lap dog, take a look at the Cavalier King Charles. You are going to need to bathe and brush him or her regularly but they are happy to be at home with minimal exercise.
Bernese Mountain Dog: If you enjoy a larger breed, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a sweet, gentle giant who will love to accompany you on a long walk. Be prepared to be stopped along the way - he loves making friends and people won’t be able to resist meeting him.
Boston Terrier: Your Boston Terrier is loyal and content sitting by your side. You will find her to be mild tempered and easy to train.
Labrador Retriever: If you want a medium to large sized dog, a Labrador Retriever might be a good fit. They are fun loving and smart so you will be entertained by this breed as a new companion.
So, if you haven’t thought of adopting a pet yet, now is the time to do it. An animal is warm, and fuzzy while offering lots of cuddles and unconditional love. There are lots of benefits to your overall health and well-being. If you have room in your home and time to spend with a pet, visit a local shelter to offer a forever home to a pet in need.