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Pets help with stress.

Even though having pets can cause stress, I find playing with my dogs, taking them for a walk, or even talking to them about my problems helps me deal with stress.

Anthony, That's wonderful to hear. Animals can be great at helping you reduce your stress. Sometimes getting out for a walk, even for 15 minutes with an animal, can change your point of view. Of course, our animals appreciate the attention too!

Dr. Melissa Read

I have a dog and just talking with her and having her sit besides me helps me get my world in order. I feel that interacting with her makes relives my stress

A. Valdez

Don't sell cats short, either! Many are in just as much need of physical affection and attention as their canine counterparts, thereby providing stress relief through petting, cuddling, etc. They also tend to be more independent (re:their own care) than many dogs, so the lack of a need to let them out to relieve themselves or feed them on a certain schedule can be an added bonus (similar benefits with less work)- plus (depending on the dog breed) they weigh a lot less when they cuddle on top of you or take over the bed!

Michael, Dogs have a very natural way of reducing our stress. They focus on different things than we do - play, treats, sleep. When we are overworked, we can balance ourselves by observing their behavior and modeling it.

Dr. Melissa Read

I also enjoy my dog aftera hard day at work and knoing I have a wagging tail at the other end of the door. They dont expect much in return and always glad to see you. I will always make time and play with her and and this is a great stress releaver for me. My blood pressure seems to go down and they are always glad to see you.

I enjoy my dog and it is wonderfull to come home and see that tail wag and having them greet you after a stressful day at work. I always make time to bond each day and this helps my blood pressure go down , as well as knowing they want noting in return.A snack will always away to say thanks.

yes!!! i find that pets help immensely! when i come home from work, its just a comfort to know theres someone not expecting anything! not judging you for the work you did! not having expectations! just accepting you for you.... that relieves stress right there for me!!

Just having my dog, Belle Molly, greet me at the end of a hectic day, lowers my blood pressure and stress level.

very true,spending time with my mans best friend is a great way to reduce stress in my life

I have two Keeshondens who bring me much pleasure and joy. They are always happy dogs. I can feel my stress melt off of my shoulders and neck when I pet them.

I am with you on this one. having pets changes the whole outlook for me...I take my dogs for walks-the fresh air helps me breath better, and the atmosphere of being out of house-makes life feel awesome. I have dogs and I sure do love walking them..plus helps me lose this weight.

Frank, Yes, long term, pets are wonderful to have in your life. There are some short term investments that need to be made, but they are well worth it!

Dr. Melissa Read

I agree that pets can help relieve stress by taking your mind off of your problems.It's true they do create stress of their own but I think in the long run they're worth it.

Blake, Sounds like you have found some wonderful companions and they have found a perfect caregiver in you. Yes, having animals is often well worth the investment. Dogs often calm and sooth. They love to play too.

Dr. Melissa Read

I have two rescue dogs and no matter how bad my day was, I cannot be upset when I come home to their wagging tails and happiness. It does cost some money, but it is money well spent. My dogs add a calming and soothing affect to my life.

Jeffrey, Yes, pets are great stress reducers and they tend to love spending time. At the same time, the number of pets you have can certainly take a toll on your budget as well as your time spent with walking and feeding.

Dr. Melissa Read

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