Healthy living with pets | Fusion - WeRIndia

Owning a pet brings immeasurable joy and numerous health benefits. Regular interactions with pets can lead to decreased blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels.

They also reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and symptoms of PTSD. Moreover, pets encourage more physical activity, outdoor time, and socialization.

However, it’s crucial to remember that pets can carry germs that may make us sick, known as zoonotic diseases.

To enjoy the companionship of our pets while maintaining good health, certain precautions are necessary.

Washing hands thoroughly after any interaction with your pet or their belongings is essential.

This simple act can significantly reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases. Whether you’re playing, feeding, or cleaning up after your pet, make handwashing a non-negotiable part of your routine.

Always wash your hands after touching or playing with your pet, handling their food, or cleaning their habitats.

This rule also applies after leaving areas where animals live, such as barns or coops, even if you didn’t touch an animal.

Before eating, drinking, or preparing food, ensure your hands are clean. If soap and water are not immediately available, use hand sanitiser as a temporary measure. However, soap and running water are the best for eliminating germs.

For families with young children, adults should oversee the handwashing process to ensure it’s done correctly.

This supervision helps instil good hygiene habits from an early age, keeping both children and pets healthy.

If you or any family member starts feeling unwell, it’s important to consult a doctor and mention any recent contact with animals.

Early consultation and full disclosure can help prevent more serious health issues.

In summary, pets can significantly enhance our lives, offering both companionship and health benefits.

By following these simple hygiene practices, we can ensure a safe and healthy environment for both our families and our beloved pets.

Remember, a little precaution goes a long way in maintaining the joy pets bring into our lives.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1089435