Veterans Day is November 11th and honors those who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Transitioning from service to civilian life can be difficult and companion pets can help with this transition. Since pets require daily feeding and exercise, caring for them provides a routine schedule and sense of purpose for veterans. These routines help vets with physical activity and mental stimulation. Companion pets can help veterans connect and socialize with people in their community, especially other pet owners, as they can relate to one another. Pets provide unconditional love and companionship and interacting with animals can help reduce loneliness, anxiety and depression. A report published in Psychosomatic Medicine revealed that people with pets had significantly lower heart rate and blood pressure levels during a study of psychological and physical stress. There are organizations, such as Pets for Vets that help place veterans with a companion pet and many of these organizations pair veterans with shelter animals, which gives these deserving animals a second chance at a loving home.
Pets Helping Vets
