Posted: September 21, 2009 3:00 a.m. EDT
Pet ownership has been shown to have health benefits for humans, including reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. |
The North American Pet Health Insurance Association has designated September as National Pet Health Insurance Month. During this month, the organization will be focusing on the ways in which pets are good for the health of their human parents.
According to NAPHIA, documented studies on human health suggest that pet ownership bestows the following benefits:
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
- Higher survival rates from heart attacks
- Significantly lower use of general practitioner services
- Reduced risk of asthma and allergic rhinitis in children exposed to pet allergens during the first year of their life
- Better physical and psychological well-being for seniors
According to the research by the Delta Society and others, there is not a significant social or economic difference between people who do or do not have a pet that adequately explains the differences in health outcomes, leading to the conclusion that pet ownership itself is the primary cause of the positive benefits, a release from NAPHIA said.
"At a time in which our society is looking for treatment alternatives to complement Western medicine, research is consistently demonstrating that pets can have a profound impact on people's physical and emotional health,” said Lawrence Norvell, president/CEO of Delta Society. “We are excited to see more healthcare professionals and other leaders embracing the fact that pets can be a cost-effective approach to improving people's health while enriching their lives."
The Delta Society is a human services organization dedicated to improving people's health and well-being through interactions with animals.
During September, NAPHIA is sponsoring a nationwide contest to select pet health insurance customers' favorite veterinary practices from moreo than 20,000 across North America. Pet owners are posting pictures of their pets, along with stories, at the NAPHIA website. The contest highlights the care and recovery of pets for whom pet health insurance helped to provide needed care. There will be prizes for the pet owner, an educational grant provided to the veterinary care provider and a donation to the pet shelter or rescue group of the winner's choice.