It is well-known anecdotally that interaction with a gentle, friendly pet has significant benefits. What is less well known is that there is strong scientific evidence to back this up.

Here are some of the more common:

For Physical Health

• lowers blood pressure
• improves cardiovascular health
• releases endorphins (oxytocin) that have a calming effect
• diminishes overall physical pain
• the act of petting produces an automatic relaxation response, reducing the amount of medication some folks need

For Mental Health

• lifts spirits and lessens depression
• decreases feelings of isolation and alienation
• encourages communication
• provides comfort
• increases socialization and sense of community
• reduces boredom
• decreases anxiety
• helps children overcome speech and emotional disorders
• creates motivation for the client to recover faster
• reduces loneliness

For Literacy Support

• helps children focus better
• improves literacy skills
• provides non-stressful, non-judgmental environment
• increases self-confidence
• reduces self-consciousness
• encourages the love of reading in specific and learning in general

In Physical Therapy

• increases joint movement
• improves recovery time
• maintains or increases motor skills
• provides motivation to move more, stretch farther, exercise longer

For more detailed information see here: Paws for People