Cat and dog breeds that help with depression

Cat and dog breeds that help with depression

New research has revealed the amazing health benefits our furry companions provide. This includes help with depression by combatting PTSD, anxiety, Alzheimer’s and even heart disease.

Research compiled by Tombola has found that petting a dog for only 15 minutes lowers blood pressure by 10%. It releases serotonin, oxytocin, prolactin and even lowers the stress hormone cortisol. These feel-good hormones lower our stress and anxiety, serotonin being the main thing antidepressants try to replicate.

It’s not just dogs, studies show that the interaction with cats, rabbits and even turtles has the same effect. In one study, adults were told to pet either a turtle, rabbit, toy turtle or toy rabbit. Researchers found that petting a living creature, whether furry or shelled, massively reduced anxiety and depression in the participants.

The findings also indicate owning the following breeds help combat depression:

Top dog breeds that help with depression

  • Labrador
  • Viszla
  • Poodle

Top cat breeds that help with depression

  • Sphynx
  • Ragdoll
  • Main Coon

Pets are also very effective in combatting loneliness. It is found that they give their owners purpose, a sense of routine and a reason to leave the house.

Tombola’s research reveals that: A nine-year study found that those lacking social relationships were three more times likely to die than those with good social ties. Wheelchair users reported that they are more engaged in conversations with strangers because of their pets.

Research also shows that brain activity when caring for dogs is the same as when caring for children. This shows that we have a very similar bond with our pets as we do with our own children, and that we love them just as much.

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