Public Health:

How to Stay Healthy Around Pets

Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. Some of the health benefits of having a pet include:

• Decreased blood pressure
• Decreased cholesterol levels
• Decreased triglyceride levels
• Decreased feelings of loneliness
• Increased opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities
• Increased opportunities for socialization

The Benefits of Pets for Human Health

Companion animals may improve heart health by lowering blood pressure and regulating the heart rate during stressful situations. In a 2002 study, researchers measured changes in heart rate and blood pressure among people who had a dog or cat, compared to those who did not, when participants were under stress (performing a timed math task). People with a dog or cat had lower resting heart rates and blood pressure measures at the beginning of the experiment than non-pet owners.

A similar study found that having your dog in the room lowered blood pressure better than taking a popular type of blood pressure medication (ACE inhibitor) when you are under stress.^[5] Other research has indicated that the simple act of stroking a pet can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol.^[6]

Children’s exposure to companion animals may also ease anxiety.

Findings suggest that the social support a pet provides can make a person feel more relaxed and decrease stress.^[8]

Among elderly people, pet ownership might also be an important source of social support that enhances well-being.

Researchers found that people who said they had a pet in both 1996 and 2001 had the fewest doctor visits, followed by people who had acquired a pet by 2001; the group of people who did not have a pet at either time had the highest number of doctor visits.^[11] 

16 Science-Backed Reasons Adopting a Dog Could Be Good for Your Heart

1. Studies show that dog owners may live longer than non-dog owners.
2. Dog owners are 31% less likely to die from a heart attack or stroke than non-dog owners.
3. People with prior heart events who had a dog living at home had a 65% reduced risk of death.
4. Dog owners who walk their dogs regularly face one-third the risk of diabetes of those who don’t own a dog.
5. Dog parents are more likely to reach their fitness goals than those without canine companions.
6. Pet companionship may provide important social support and is a powerful predictor of behavior changes that can lead to weight loss.
7. Dogs can help with chronic conditions and prevent chronic disease.
8. Pet ownership is an important form of social support that can benefit patients with heart disease or stroke.
9. When we see, touch, hear or talk to our companion animals, we feel  goodwill, joy, nurturing and happiness. At the same time, stress hormones are suppressed.
10. Studies show that the mere act of petting a dog decreases blood pressure.
11. Having a pet can help increase fitness levels, relieve stress and boost overall happiness and well-being.
12. Dogs help ease people out of isolation or shyness. Studies find that owning and walking a dog increases social interaction.
13. Dog-owning families often promote physical activity within the household.
14. Dog parents are more likely to fit in the recommended level of physical activity than those who don’t have a dog 15. Dog parents are 34% more likely to fit in 150 minutes of walking per week recommended by the AHA than non-dog owners.
15. Dogs are always there to comfort you. They put a smile on your face every day.