French novelist Anatole France once said, “Until one has loved an animal a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.” And if you own a Fido or Fluffy, you’ll no doubt agree with the sentiment. But science also has a lot to say about the benefits of pet ownership, including that by owning one you’re likely to be…

Happier
Research proves that pets are a valuable source of social support for their owners. One study conducted by psychologists at Miami University showed that pet owners displayed greater self-esteem, had healthier relationship styles, and were less lonely, more conscientious and more socially outgoing that those who didn’t own pets. (Psychologytoday.com)

“Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”

Roger Cara

Healthier
Several studies have linked pet ownership to a reduction in stress and anxiety. What’s more, according to Webmd.com, studies show that “Heart attack survivors and people with serious abnormal heart rhythms who own dogs live longer than people with the same heart problems who don’t have pets.”

“Time spent with cats is never wasted.”

Sigmund Freud

More active
A study conducted by the University of East Anglia found that “dog owners who walked their dogs were more active and less sedentary on days with the poorest (weather) conditions than non-dog owners were on days with the best conditions.” It also found that, “In the poorest conditions those who walked their dogs had 20% higher activity levels than non-dog owners and spent 30 min/day less sedentary.”

“If you don’t own a dog, at least one, there is not necessarily anything wrong with you, but there may be something wrong with your life.”

Roger A. Caras

More social
Pets are a great conversation starter and walking your dog, whether in the park, around the block or in your retirement complex (all Evergreen houses and ground floor apartments are pet-friendly) is a wonderful way to connect with dog owners and non-owners alike.

“In order to keep a true perspective of one’s importance, everyone should have a dog that will worship him and a cat that will ignore him.”

Derek Bruce