According to an APPA survey, 62% of small dogs, 41% of medium-sized dogs and 32% of large dogs sleep with their owners. The survey also found that 62% of cats sleep with their adult owners, and another 13% of cats sleep with children.

We’ve listed for you below the potential benefits of sharing your bed with your pets, as well as the potential drawbacks – so you can make an informed decision!

Benefits

Sharing your bed with your pet will increase the levels of oxytocin (hormone of love) and reduce levels of cortisol, which in turn will increase your overall well-being and have the following positive effects on your sleep and on your health : 

• Reduces depression

• Combats insomnia

• Reduces nightmare

• Reduces worry and loneliness

• Lowers blood pressure

• Creates a special bond with your pet

• Decreases hypertension

• Increases security

• Reduces allergies

• Natural alarm clock

• Keeps you warm

• Improves your immunity

Drawbacks

• To avoid at all costs for people who suffer from asthma or allergies

• Decreased sleep quality

• Not great for intimacy

• If allowed once, they will return

• Germ exposure

• Risk of injury

Tips if you do decide to co-sleep!

• Use a properly sized mattress

• Wash your sheets and bedding regularly

• Stay up to date on vet visits and treatments

• Walk your pet before bed

• Keep a consistent bedtime routine

Watch this space for more updates on the Pets Ark!

The Pets Ark family