This content is sponsored by MOAA Insurance Plans.
You may have heard the expression, “Be the person your dog thinks you are.” While that statement may be a bit tongue in cheek, its point is clear: our pets think the world of us, which makes them so much fun to be around.
Pets are more than just creatures who share our living space. They are loved (and loving) family members. It probably comes as no surprise that pets can contribute to your happiness, but did you know that they also help to improve your overall health and well-being? Spending quality time with your pet can benefit you in a number of ways:
- Reduce stress. Interacting with a pet helps to lower blood pressure and decrease levels of cortisol, a stress-related hormone. Studies have also shown that pets in the workplace can even reduce career-related stress and increase employee satisfaction.
- Ease loneliness. Pets provide companionship and support, which can have a positive effect on your state of mind. Your pet’s unconditional love helps you ward off anxiety or depression and find meaning and joy in life.
- Get more exercise. Having a pet, especially a dog, gives you a reason to get outside and be active, which is proven to improve your mood, sleep, and mental health. More exercise also leads to better fitness and cardiovascular health.
- Meet new people. Having a pet can increase your feelings of social support. You have opportunities to meet other pet owners and make new friends. There are even social media sites where you can connect and communicate with other pet lovers online.
The Science of the Human-Animal Bond
After centuries of domestication, pets have evolved to become very familiar with human behavior and emotions. They are often able to interpret tone of voice, body language, and emotions. Therapy dogs, in particular, are adept at providing emotional support, helping to ease the anxiety of hospital and nursing home patients.
Researchers are also determining how animals can influence child development. Caring for a pet encourages children to grow up more secure and active. What’s more, evidence indicates that dogs in the classroom can help children with ADHD focus their attention.
Keeping Your Pet Healthy
As pets do their part to keep us healthy, it’s important that we return the favor. Regular trips to the vet are important — and often expensive. That’s why many pet owners find pet insurance to be a wise purchase.
As a MOAA member, you can take advantage of Pets Best insurance for your dog or cat. Along with coverage to help with eligible veterinary costs, policyholders will have access to a 24/7 Pet Helpline so that you can call, email or chat online with a pet healthcare expert.
Pets Best insurance helps you take care of the pet who cares so much about you. For more information on coverage options and member-only pricing, visit the MOAA Pet Insurance Page or phone 1-877-934-9423 and mention referral code MOAA.
Pet insurance coverage offered and administered by Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC is underwritten by American Pet Insurance Company, a New York insurance company headquartered at 6100 4th Ave. S. Suite 200 Seattle, WA 98108, or Independence American Insurance Company, a Delaware insurance company located at 11333 N. Scottsdale Rd, Ste. 160, Scottsdale, AZ 85254. Pets Best Insurance Services, LLC (CA agency #0F37530) is a licensed insurance agency located at 10840 Ballantyne Commons Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28277. Each insurer has sole financial responsibility for its own products. Please refer to your declarations page to determine the underwriter for your policy. Terms and conditions apply. See your policy for details.