If you're a pet lover, you'll think "well duh" but hear this out: pets are the ultimate de-stressor. As technology has improved and neuro-scientists have been able to use MRI scans to study the biochemistry of our brains, there is scientific evidence about the many benefits of having a dog... or a cat, or a piglet since we beautify all of them.
Here are some facts:
- Your brain releases oxytocin in the presence of your favorite creature. This slows your heart rate and regulates your levels of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone. No wonder why we feel so calm!
- Your pet smells the oxytocin you release, and gets extra playful. This is the reason they "feel like us." Your four legged baby received you super perky when you came in today? Life might feel really good today for you and he or she can tell.
- And while at it, beta endorphins and dopamine also level up so you feel like you had just finished practicing your favorite sport.
So, the next time you are trying to convince a friend to adopt a pet, and s/he gives you the list of cons, mention there is scientific proof of how life is much better with them!