Cozying Up with Canines: Health Advantages, Potential Hazards, and Safety Measures
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Cats and dogs have long been cherished companions, often finding their way into our beds for a cosy night's sleep. However, the question of whether our furry friends make ideal sleep partners is a topic of debate.
On one hand, pets can offer numerous benefits. They are known to reduce stress and anxiety, fostering social and emotional connections that can positively impact our mood and overall mental health. A study suggests that pets may help reduce stress-related factors such as epinephrine and norepinephrine, lower aggression, enhance empathy, improve trustworthiness and trust in others, and serve as a main source of support for people with long-term mental health problems.
Moreover, a 2018 survey of adult women showed that a dog in bed is associated with comfort and security more so than sleeping with another person or a cat. Human-animal interactions have also been found to benefit stress-related factors like cortisol, heart rate, and blood pressure.
However, there are potential drawbacks to consider. Cats, being nocturnal, can be challenging nighttime sleep partners, often wanting to play or purposely waking you up. Dogs, on the other hand, are always on the alert, making them light sleepers and potentially disturbing sleep. They may also increase human movement due to their restless nature.
Dogs can carry allergens like dust and pollen into your bed, which can aggravate severe allergies and asthma. Additionally, bacteria, parasites, and fungi can spread from dogs and cats to humans through touching feces, licking the face or an open wound, scratches, and bites.
When it comes to health, it's important to be mindful. If you have a sleep disorder or are a light sleeper, severe allergies, a compromised immune system or serious health issues, an open wound, or your pet is dominant or aggressive, it's not advisable to let your dog in your bed. Children are also more susceptible to germs than adults, particularly if the pet tends to lick.
If you decide to share your bed with your pet, it's crucial to take some precautions. Regular veterinary checkups and vaccinations, preventive flea and tick treatments, deworming as advised by your veterinarian, washing your hands after cleaning up after your pet, and changing your sheets and bedding regularly can help mitigate potential health risks.
Training your pet to wait for permission to get on the bed, discouraging aggressive behavior, and being consistent with rules can also contribute to a peaceful night's sleep.
A good solution may be to keep a dog bed beside your own, providing your pet with a comfortable space without compromising your sleep.
In conclusion, the decision to share your bed with a pet is a personal one, balancing the emotional benefits with potential health and sleep concerns. If you have any doubts or concerns, it's always best to consult a doctor or a veterinarian.
This article was originally published on Healthline.com.
