The Magical Effects of Petting an Animal
By Chris Brown
It is difficult walking into a room that has a dog without immediately going over to pet it. This drive to run a palm along a pet's furry back is almost primal in pull. In fact, petting an animal has been shown to scientifically reduce stress and produce a chemical known to calm both you and the animal you're lucky enough to pet. In case you needed another reason to take a break and pet a cat, below are scientifically validated benefits of petting, for both owner and animal.
What Petting Does For the Owner
A Washington State University study found that just 10 minutes of petting a dog or cat reduced cortisol (stress hormone) levels in students significantly. There was even a noticeable difference when compared to sitting in a relaxing room or watching a video of animals. The tactile nature of physically petting an animal is the key component in the reduced stress levels. This may be part of the reason why pet owners are less likely to suffer depression, have lower blood pressure, and live longer than those without pets.
What Petting Does For the Pet
Pets, especially mammals, loved being caressed nearly as much as their owners love petting them. An article titled "Why do animals love petting?" reviewed new research that found petting stimulates a specific set of neurons in the brains of mammals (including humans). The chemical that becomes activated when an animal is petted reduced stress in lab mice when delivered as a synthesized supplement.
Do All Animals Like Pets?
Domesticated mammals all enjoy being pet, as do most birds (if you can get them to stay still enough to do so). However, some animals, such as reptiles, may not like being pet at all. It is suggested that the squinty face a lizard makes when you pet its head is actually one of annoyance, not pleasure. That said, it still may have the same calming effects on its human owners. And who is to say that all lizards have equal petting preferences? If the animal comes to you, pet away. Most creatures will leave if they've had enough.
If you aren't lucky enough to own a pet, the doctors at The Joint Chiropractic can provide similar relaxation. Sessions are affordable without insurance and walk-ins are welcome. Come in today to relieve tension with a self-care adjustment.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Castro Valley, Calif.