We all love our pets! Pets aren’t only great to cuddle and play with, but they’re also great to have around for mental health purposes.

Don’t believe us? Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Farragut gives the scoop on pets and mental health.

How Is Having a Pet Good for Me?

Having a pet around—especially a dog or a cat—can be great for your mental health. Caring for your pet can decrease feelings of depression, loneliness, and can be a way to become more social with others if you tend to be a more introverted person.

Having a dog or cat can also encourage physical activity and improve your cardiovascular health.

Other Benefits of Having a Pet

• Pets can lower your stress levels.
• Pets can provide comfort in times of distress.
• Pets can cause decreased blood pressure levels.

Are There Any Negatives to Owning a Pet?

With anything, there are pros and cons, but as long as you don’t have pet allergies, then there really aren’t many negatives from a health perspective.

If you are unsure about whether you have pet allergies, an allergy test might be helpful. This will not only result in helpful information in regard to pet allergies but will help you know what other common allergens to avoid to help you feel better.

How to Deal With Pet Allergies if You Own a Pet

• Keep pets out of your bedroom.
• Declare a room in the house an “allergy-free zone.”
• Bathe your pet weekly to decrease the amount of allergens in the air.
• Change air filters frequently.
• If you have carpet, vacuum often.

At AFC Urgent Care Farragut, we care about the health of you and your family. If you or a loved one has questions about overall health or specific concerns, visit us today.