A Cozy Night's Sleep

Two health experts walk into a bar...  One says to the other, "You probably shouldn't let your pet sleep in your bed."  The other begs...to differ.  Let the debate begin!

​Ok, so it's not so much a debate, but more a science-meets-reality, philosophical discussion.  Do you care where your pet sleeps?  You probably haven't thought much about it.  Or, if you're like the majority of pet owners you seek out your furry loved one, coaxing them onto your bed to settle in for a good night's sleep. 

Veterinarians and human health experts are on both sides of the kennel.  Some say pets can transmit diseases to their human counterparts.  But others say as long as your pet has regular vet visits and a clean bill of health, you don't need to worry.  Some remind us that pets bring pollen and other allergens into our bed too, causing more discomfort for allergy sufferers.  Yet (sniffle) there is research showing that exposure to dog microbes can benefit our health by boosting your immune system.  So, before you hold your pet's cute little face in your hands and reassure them that they are indeed your baby, realize this is not about them.  This is about you and your sleep.

So you sniffle a bit more.  Big deal.  But are you getting quality sleep when you and your pet sleep together?  Allergies aside, experts agree that dreaming pets who may "jump" and snore in their sleep can actually pull you out of deep sleep with their movements and sounds.   You might not even realize it's happening.  Furthermore, your sleep can become more fragmented by limited movement for you, especially if you have large dogs or multiple pets in your bed.  How many of us have mastered the perfect sleep position to allow your pet to sleep tight?  (I'm raising my hand)  Only once did I move incorrectly and send my cat flying off the bed.  I learned my lesson.  Should we force ourselves to sleep in unrealistic positions to accommodate Fifi?  

In a recent pole conducted by The Costco Connection on this very subject, 80% of readers said "Yes, my pet sleeps with me!"   While it remains a divided topic by experts, most of us wouldn't even entertain the idea of tossing Oscar on the floor.  Hug your pet, then consider the two factors addressed here:  1.  What is my pet bringing into my bed?  2.  Is their sleep interrupting mine?  Be honest with yourself.  Your pet probably loves the comfort and warmth of your bed, but ultimately Buddy needs you well rested.    

Tell us what you think - to sleep together or not?

Comfi Pets are happi pets.

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