The power of a pet

Some slobber and some shed. But despite these minor inconveniences, pets bring us enormous pleasure. And, as research continues to suggest, they offer physical and emotional benefits too. Here's a sampling of what science has unleashed about how pets affect human health:

Longevity. One landmark study found that pet-owning patients were 8.6 times more likely to be alive one year after a heart attack than those with-out pets.

Overall health. In a 2006 study, older people with pets had fewer minor health problems and doctor visits than their peers who didn't have pets. According to the National Center for Infectious Diseases and other groups, pets can:

• Boost the immune system.
• Lower triglycerides, blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Decrease feelings of loneliness

Another study -- one that involved nearly 11,000 people -- found that the healthiest people were those who continuously owned a pet. The least healthy: Those who no longer had a pet or never had one.

Chronic conditions. Various studies suggest that pets can soothe and help people with heart disease, dementia, cancer and depression.

Mental health. Pets can lower stress and offer companionship, pleasure, affection and social opportunities.

Fitness. One study found that dog owners walked an average of 300 minutes a week compared with 168 minutes for those who didn't own a dog.

Credited to: Winter/Spring 2012 : Goldencare Update