The Surprising Way Your Dog or Cat Can Save You Money

We complain about pet hair on the couch. We groan when we have to walk the dog in the pouring rain. We are definitely successful in animal debt.

But if you think your dog or cat is a waste of your money, you’re missing the big picture.

Science is increasingly showing that owning a pet is not just a way of life. Formal health interventions. You may spend a few thousand dollars a year on food and maintenance, but the return on investment comes in the form of lower blood pressure, less stress, and, statistically, a longer life.

A heart health benefit

Let’s look at the data. A 2019 review published by the American Heart Association analyzed data from nearly 4 million people. Researchers found that dog ownership was associated with a 24% reduced risk of death from any cause compared to non-ownership.

The numbers are even better for people with pre-existing conditions. If you’ve had a heart attack and live alone, owning a dog reduces the risk of death by 33%, according to a Swedish study of more than 300,000 patients. Dogs are not just friends; they help keep people alive.

Cats come with their own medical benefits

Dog owners often get all the credit for the health benefits because they have to travel with their pets, but cat owners shouldn’t feel left out.

According to a study published by the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology, owning a cat is associated with a reduced risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke.

In another 20-year follow-up study, researchers found a significantly lower relative risk of death from myocardial infarction among participants with previous cat ownership.

The theory is that the simple act of stroking a purring cat acts as a powerful stress reliever, reducing the daily tension that damages your cardiovascular system over time.

How pets change your body

There are a few specific ways that explain why our furry friends keep us out of the hospital:

• 1. Hormonal changes: Socializing with a dog or cat lowers your levels of cortisol, the hormone that causes stress. At the same time, it boosts your oxytocin production. This chemical reaction directly translates to lower blood pressure and a calmer base for your nervous system.
• 2. Forced fitness routine: You can’t easily escape when a dog is staring at you with a leash in its mouth. Dog owners are more likely to hit the recommended 150 minutes of weekly exercise than people without dogs.
• 3. Communicating with people: Pets force you to connect with the world. Whether you’re chatting with neighbors on a walk or sharing photos online, pets can reduce social isolation, which is a major risk factor for premature decline.

How to protect your finances while protecting your health

Before you rush to the animal shelter, you still need to work. Pets are expensive, and you shouldn’t get one if you can’t afford routine care or unexpected emergencies.

If you’re on a fixed income, check out “7 Pet Expenses That Could Deplete Your Retirement Budget,” so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.

You should also look at how to avoid the pitfalls of expensive pet ownership to keep those everyday expenses under control.

Medical emergencies are a big threat to your wallet. You don’t want to be in a situation where you have to choose between saving yourself and your best friend.

Take the time to decide if pet insurance is really right for you. If you decide to go that route, knowing exactly when pet insurance pays out can save you thousands over the life of your pet.

If you have room in your budget, bringing a pet into your home may be one of the smartest things you can do for your life.