Mike Loftus is an Illinois-based entrepreneur who founded MLE Merchandising & Sign Solutions in 2002, and has since expanded its operations across 14 states. Outside of work, MLE's Mike Loftus has several pets at home, including two Great Danes.
Studies have shown that owning a pet is good for your health. Here are five ways pets can improve your well-being.
1. They can decrease stress levels.
Grooming and touching a pet can be comforting and calming, which stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that reduces blood pressure, anxiety, and tension. Oxytocin also suppresses cortisol, a hormone released in response to stress.
2. They provide a distraction from issues that are bothering you.
Spending time with your pet helps to keep you in the present moment and prevents you from dwelling too much on negative issues.
3. They can reduce feelings of loneliness.
Pets make good company and are often intuitive enough to seek you out when they recognize you are feeling sad.
4. They offer unconditional love.
Pets are happy to be with you just as you are and don’t pass judgment.
5. They give meaning to your life.
Caring for a pet gives you a purpose and allows you to reduce your focus on yourself.
