Top 10 Emotional and Physical Benefits of Making Pets Part of Your Family

About 60% of all American households own pets. You should be a part of that 60% and reap the rewards!

1. Pets are good for your heart.
They can reduce blood pressure (just stroking a pet can reduce blood pressure) and cholesterol. Sometimes they even do a better job than medication!

2. Pets can reduce stress.
Even though it feels good to talk to a friend about your problems, research shows that spending time with your pet may be even better for reducing your stress. Maybe because pets don’t judge, they just love you!

3. Pets can improve your mood.
If you have ever come home from a bad day at school or work to a tail-wagging, face-licking "hello" you know how pets can boost your spirits.

4. Owning pets means fewer visits to the doctor’s.
Studies have found that pet ownership leads to overall improved health and fewer medical care visits.

5. Pets encourage you to get up and exercise.
Pet owners have another reason to exercise — they have to keep their pets active, too. Having a pet means there’s always someone for you to walk with.

6. Pet owners have a higher survival rate after serious illness.
Studies show patients in hospitals or nursing homes who have regular visits from their pets have shown to be more receptive to treatment. The need to care for their pet gives them reason to recover and the will to live.

7. They reduce loneliness and provide unconditional love.
Often in ways people can’t. They can offer love and companionship, and can also enjoy comfortable silences, keep secrets and are excellent snugglers!

8. They enhance family life.
Pets minimize family tension and are very important during family crisis or deaths in the family.

9. Pets provide you with social support.
Research shows that walking with a pet makes us more approachable and gives people a reason to stop and talk. That means you meet more people.

10. Pets are a great addition to any family photo
Who doesn’t love taking a picture with their favorite dog or cat. Every time you look at it, we guarantee it will make you smile. Plus, what a great pic to send to the grandparents!