By Donna V. Scaglione
The human-animal bond has been around a long time and only seems to be getting stronger. In 1967, the U.S. pet population was at 40 million; by 2006, that number had climbed to 160 million, according to the National Institutes of Health. Today, at least one pet lives in about two-thirds of American homes.
Although scientific study into the human-animal connection is in its early stages, some research as well as expert observations have confirmed what you, if you’re a pet owner, likely already know — your furry companion is good for you. Here are some specifics on exactly how pets keep us healthy and even help us live longer.
1. Healthier heart
Studies have suggested that pets can play an important role in our cardiovascular health. In one NIH study of 421 heart attack survivors, those who owned dogs were significantly more likely to be alive a year later than those who did not, regardless of heart attack severity. Among married couples studied in other NIH research, pet owners had lower blood pressure and heart rates, whether resting or participating in stressful tests, than those couples who didn’t have pets. Also, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says our four-legged friends help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
