Why West Virginia Is The Perfect Place To Own A Pet?

Of all of the states to live, wild and wonderful West Virginia is the perfect place! Not just for the mountains and scenery, but it’s also pet-friendly too!

Owning a pet can improve your health, including your cardiovascular health and immunity. West Virginia is one of the top states for pet owners, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.

They report that nearly 71% of people in the state are pet owners, with dogs and cats coming out on top. So, why are so many West Virginians oping to own a pet?

Pet-friendly attractions

Dogs are the most common pet in West Virginia. It’s estimated that 50% of households own at least one. There are lots of pet-friendly attractions in the state which explain why dogs are so popular, and that’s why so many people have dogs.

These are the most pet-friendly attractions in West Virginia:

• Blackwater Falls State Park
• The Freefolk Brewery
• North Bend Rail Trail
• Seneca State Forest

If you’re looking for something a little different to do with your dog, West Virginia offers ghost tours at Harpers Ferry and lunatic asylum tours at Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. You can even eat out with your furry friend at many eateries in West Virginia, including Vandal’s Kitchen and Cathedral Cafe.

Vital companionship

Pets make great companions. They’re always there for you and give you someone to talk to and care for. The fact that pets need feeding, grooming, walking, cleaning, brushing, and similar gives owners a sense of purpose.

West Virginia is currently the fourth loneliest state across the whole of the U.S so companionship is very much needed. Loneliness is connected with various health conditions, including high blood pressure, cognitive decline, and anxiety.

Simply talking to a pet can increase your human interaction and reduce the risk of getting a loneliness-related health issue. The great thing about pets is that there are so many different ones to choose from.

When it comes to choosing your first pet, dogs, cats, reptiles, and fish are good animals to consider. They all require different levels of care so think about how much time you can commit to your pet before choosing the ideal companion.

Mood-lifter

Last year, West Virginia was ranked as the least happiest state in America. The emotional and physical well-being of individuals is said to be low and the depression rate is 24.62%. Pets are popular in the state because they can prevent depression and improve people’s moods.

Studies have found that having a pet reduces depressive symptoms. Another study found that pet owners were 50% more likely to have had depression in the past, indicating that pets helped them overcome their depression. If you’re considering the benefits of having a pet, such as a cat or dog, and are interested in obtaining an Emotional Support Animal Letter, check this out!

Other studies have found that simply looking at pets makes people happy, as does stroking them and interacting with them. So, there really are lots of mental health benefits associated with pet ownership.

Pet ownership is very high in West Virginia and it’s clear to see why. Being around pets is calming and boasts some great health benefits. People feel good when they can nurture something and, as there are so many different types of pets, there is one to suit everyone.