A pet is a man’s best friend, and there is no better time to show love for your pet than National Pet Day! April 11, 2021 was national pet day this year and in celebration here are just a few of the ways pets improve our lives every day!

Studies have proven that the emotional benefit pets provide helps our cardiovascular health in several ways. Primarily, they can help lower cortisol, cholesterol, and even blood pressure levels. Some pets even motivate owners to take regular walks and playing with their pets can have further positive impacts on blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

Beyond the physical health that dogs bring, they also provide emotional fulfillment and companionship. For example, dogs are able to understand certain common words we use and they are experts on body language. Thanks to this ability, they are able to sense when we are upset and try to provide comfort. Given the pandemic and quarantining, having a pet to keep us company is just what we need. Animals also help minimize levels and effects of stress, anxiety, and depression. Petting an animal can have soothing benefits that calms the central nervous system. 

Although pets help improve physical health in multiple ways, the most prevailing benefit is the love and companionship that they offer us. Check out the pets of Lodi High School’s staff and students below!

Gallery • 46 Photos

Marcella Piazza's Maya

Sources:

https://nationaltoday.com/national-pet-day
https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/health-benefits/index.html
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/mental-health/mood-boosting-power-of-dogs.htm