Dogs, cats, and other companion animals often bring a smile to the faces of their family. But as science has recently proven, they also make their owners healthier, serving as a sort of preventive care measure that can keep many potentially severe medical issues at bay. Below are a few ways pets promote better health and well-being.

How Pets Make Us Better

1. They're Heart Helpers

When it comes to preventive care for the heart, owning a dog has definite benefits. Pet parents need to take their dogs on daily walks, and this regular exercise helps lower the risk of cardio issues, including heart attack and stroke. Since physical activity also reduces bad cholesterol levels and blood pressure, it also makes those who do have a cardiac event more likely to survive.

2. They're Natural Stress-Reducers

Petting a dog, cat, or another animal automatically initiates the release of the neurotransmitter serotonin. This is a feel-good chemical produced by the brain, and it creates a relaxing effect by offsetting the impact of stress hormones. Lowering stress levels is a preventive care practice everyone should actively engage in. After all, anxiety can wreak havoc on the body, increasing the risk for heart problems, obesity, and diabetes, to name just a few concerns.

3. They Boost Mood

Pet owners are generally happier than people who don't own pets. They have better self-esteem, are more conscientious, and possess healthier relationship habits. Pet owners are less lonely and are more socially outgoing than nonowners. Studies have also found that a pet provides the same level of emotional support as one gets from family members, close friends, and other loved ones, which can stave off depression and mental health issues, such as dementia.

Pet ownership can help you live a healthier life—as can having a medical team you can trust. For any medical concerns, trust the team at Santiam Hospital. Since 1953, they have been serving patients throughout the Mid-Willamette Valley. They have a number of primary care clinics dedicated to preventive care and an emergency room ready to help you recover from life’s unpleasant surprises. Call (503) 749-4734 or visit them online to make an appointment.