Posted by International Health on Monday, August 22, 2016
Good and Bad Effects of Sleeping with Pets
A survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association revealed that nearly half of all pet parents let their pets sleep with them at night. Obviously it is a common practice, but is it healthy for you and your dog? Here are four great reasons to let your dog share your bed, and three reasons to make Fido keeping all four floors.
Good Effect
1. The Dog Warm
There’s a reason it feels extra terrific to snuggle up to a dog on a cold night: our pets’ body temperatures are three to six degrees higher than our own. They’re highly efficient, non-electric blankets.
2. Dogs Make us Feel Safe
"There are all kinds of health benefits to having a pet. And some people might feel safer or quieter with dogs in their beds," Lisa Shives, M.D., medical director of Northshore Sleep Medicine, said pets.webmd.com.
3. They're Good For Our Brain Chemistry
Associated with feeling safe and quiet, touching pets increases levels of oxytocin in the body. Oxytocin, also known as the "cuddle chemical," increases our feelings of relaxation, confidence and psychological stability.
4. It Makes a Happy Dog
And let's face it, we are suckers to give them what they want. Writer UK Julia Stephenson explains, "collie Greece I stayed in the room a small concrete alone until I let go, and do not have the experience of living in a loving home, but he remained close to our streets and never ran. I believe that allows him to sleep on the bed had contributed to making her feel loved and safe. "
Bad Effect
1. Dogs Can Disturb Your Sleep.
Mayo Clinic Sleep Disorders Center completed a study in which about half of patients have pets - and 53% of those pet owners say their pets disturb their sleep in some way every night. Lack of sleep, no matter the cause, can cause decreased alertness, memory impairment, and physical and mental health problems other.
2. Animals in Bed Can Exacerbate Allergies and Asthma
The Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America recommends that people with allergies keep pets out of the bedroom completely and get a HEPA air filter for the bedroom at least, and the whole house if possible.
4. Sleeping in Bed an Complicate Dominance or Aggression Problems in Some Dogs
Cesar Milan encourages pet parents do not let the dog jump into bed whenever they want, but to invite them explicitly. "Then select the portion of the bed where the dog to sleep," he explains. Ideally, this method will prevent domination and territorial issues.