For animal-lovers, where your pet sleeps is often a topic of debate. Should you let your pet sleep in your bed? Is it a healthy option not only for the pet, but also for the pet owner? We explore this topic in our blog post.
For many years, people were told not to let their pets sleep on the bed because of the risk of spreading disease. It was also believed that it could create behavioural problems in dogs especially. However, most of this is considered ‘old-school’ advice and many experts say it’s perfectly ok let your pet sleep on the bed.
Why it’s MOSTLY ok to let your pet sleep in your bed
If your pet is in good health, it’s unlikely they will pass on any diseases to you. Good health means no ticks and fleas, and all vaccinations are up to date.
Theories that letting animals, especially dogs, sleep on the bed causes behavioural problems were debunked a long time ago. If your dog is already showing signs of aggression, this is a behavioural problem that is not caused by being allowed on a bed or other furniture. Co-sleeping might not be a good option for aggressive dogs. It would be better to give these animals their own sleeping space.
For most people, co-sleeping with dogs and cats eases anxiety and insomnia, keeps loneliness at bay (for the animal and the human!) and helps warm up the bed. In fact, recent research published by Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed that sharing your bedroom with your canine companion might actually improve your sleep. The study didn’t include cats but given that cats are usually nocturnal with shorter sleep cycles, we’re assuming cats might actually disturb your sleep if you’re a light sleeper.
Sleeping with you might be a dream come true for your pet. Dogs and cats are drawn to the scent of their human parents and they like sleeping on elevated spaces. So, from your pet’s point of view, sleeping on your bed is a puuurrrfect solution.
However, if you suffer from pet allergies or asthma, sleeping with your pet, or even allowing them into your bedroom, could aggravate symptoms. Pet hairs, and dust and pollen carried in by your pet might trigger allergies.
Protect your Sealy mattress
If you wake up feeling well rested, then your pet is most likely a good sleeping buddy – you probably also have an excellent Sealy mattress! Be sure to protect your mattress by using a mattress protector.
If you let your pet sleep in your bed, keep your mattress clean and looking new with the help of a Sealy mattress protector. A mattress protector is like a waterproof fitted sheet and it protects against bed bugs, dirt and allergens. Browse our website to find out more about Sealy mattress protectors.
Give your pet a comfortable Sealy dog bed of their own
If co-sleeping with your pet is not a good solution for you, invest in a Sealy dog bed for your pet. Sealy Dog Beds available at selected pet outlets. Please contact Pack Leader Products to locate your closest retailer. Put an old t-shirt or other item of clothing in the bed, so your scent can help our pet calm down and settle in for the night.
