The Family Bed for Pet Owners: Making Room for Your Furry Friends

Like most pet owners, you probably love to snuggle up with your furry friend at the end of a long day. It's a way to deepen your bond and enjoy their comforting presence. But if you have a small bed, that can be a challenge. In fact, it may have a counterproductive effect on your sleep quality, especially if you or your pet tends to move around a lot during the night. So, the best way to enjoy your furry friends without affecting your sleep quality is to invest in a family bed.

A family bed is the biggest bed, meaning it has enough room for you, your partner, the kids, and the pets. It is so big that you can integrate pet-friendly accessories without interfering with anyone’s comfort. The spacious setup allows you and your loved ones to have your own space while still enjoying the closeness of sleeping together.

Benefits of the Family Bed for Pet Parents

Medical professionals previously advised against sleeping with pets. They worried about sleep disturbances, allergies, asthma, and cleanliness issues. Pet dander, fleas and ticks, and the chance of catching diseases from pets were big concerns. Plus, pets might wake you up by moving or making noise.

But now, new research says sleeping with your pets might benefit your health. It improves sleep quality, lowers anxiety, and makes you feel safer. A Mayo Clinic survey about pets in the family bedroom confirms the same positive effect of this sleeping arrangement.

Studies show that having pets in bed can promote good sleep quality, lower anxiety, and make you feel safer. Pets can help you relax and fall asleep faster. Let’s look at these benefits more closely:

Promotes Bonding

When you let your pet sleep with you, it strengthens your bond. Think about it – you’re spending more time together, and that deepens your connection. The simple act of snuggling releases oxytocin, the "love hormone," making both you and your pet feel happier and closer. This closeness helps build trust and affection, making your relationship even more special.

Comfort and Security

Your pet feels much safer and more relaxed when they sleep near you. This closeness reduces their anxiety and makes them feel protected. And let's be honest, their presence also gives you a comforting sense of security. Service dogs, for example, can ease nightmare problems among those with PTSD. Knowing your pet is right there can help you feel more at ease and relaxed, which means better sleep for both of you.

Better Mental Health

Co-sleeping with your dog or cat is also great for your emotional health. Studies have found that their presence helps reduce loneliness and depression and increases feelings of social support. Pets offer unconditional love and constant companionship, a powerful remedy for stress and emotional distress. The relaxing effect of pets is partly due to the physical touch, with studies showing that older adults with pets were less likely to take medications than those who don’t have a furry friend.

Potentially Heightened Immunity

Interestingly, sleeping with your pet might even help boost your immune system. Exposure to pet dander and microbes can enhance your immune response, making you less likely to develop pet allergy and asthma. This constant, low-level exposure helps your body build resilience, which can lead to better overall health.

Full-Body Wellness

The benefits of sharing a bed with your pet extend to your whole body. Studies show that pet owners often have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which is great for heart health. Taking care of a pet also encourages you to be more active, which improves your fitness and overall well-being. Plus, the emotional support pets provide can reduce stress, leading to better sleep quality and overall health.

How to Integrate Pet-Friendly Accessories

The secret to co-sleeping with your furry friend is to make the space comfortable and functional for everyone. Here are a few tips on how to make your family bed pet-friendly and clean:

Choose Pet-Friendly Bedding

First, consider the bedding that works best for you and your pets. Opt for durable, easy-to-clean materials that withstand pet dander and occasional accidents. Look for fabrics that resist allergens, which will help minimize allergens and resulting sleep disorders like sleep apnea, etc.

Designate a Sleeping Spot

Create a designated sleeping spot for your pet within the family bed. This helps manage sleep disturbances and ensures everyone has enough space. You can use a pet bed or a special blanket on one side of the bed. This spot gives your pet a sense of their space while being close to you.

Add Pet Ramps or Stairs

Consider adding pet ramps or stairs if your pet has trouble jumping onto the bed. This is especially helpful for older pets or those with mobility issues or chronic pain. It makes it easier for them to get up and down without straining themselves, promoting their overall health benefits.

Use Protective Covers

Protective covers are a must for keeping your bed clean. Waterproof mattress protectors and washable bed covers can help protect against pet dander, fleas and ticks, and any messes. These covers make it easy to keep the bed clean, especially if you have allergies or are concerned about hygiene. Just take off the covers and wash them regularly to keep the bed fresh.

Regular Grooming

Lastly, since you’re sharing a bed with your pet, it’s best always to ensure it’s clean. Brush them regularly to reduce shedding and keep their fur clean. This also helps minimize pet dander and allergens in the bed. Trim their nails to prevent scratches and damage to your bedding. Good grooming habits help keep the sleeping environment clean and comfortable so that everyone enjoys the benefits of a well-maintained family bed.