Tell any dog or cat owner you’re considering adopting a pet and they’ll likely gush about the unconditional love and endless joy their pet brings. But there is another reason to adopt a furry family member — it may improve your health.
Some studies have shown that pets bring a range of health benefits to the people they live with. They can improve heart health, boost immunity, lessen anxiety, reduce the risk of obesity and more.
The regular exercise dogs require helps dog owners meet their daily requirements for physical activity. This in turn leads to overall better cardiovascular health, including weight management and lower cholesterol.
Although parents of young children may be concerned about introducing a pet into their homes for fear of triggering allergies, research indicates the reverse may be true. Children who are raised with pets or on farms have a lower risk of allergies and asthma.
