Studies show that having a pet can enhance your physical, mental and social wellbeing.

Owning a  dog, for instance, will encourage you to get more exercise. With your faithful friend at your side, you're much
more likely to go for a walk. Walking is one of the best health activities you can do. While walking you're also more
likely to socially interact with your neighbors because your special pal often acts as an ice-breaker.

Research led by Dr. Karen Allen at the State University of New York at Buffalo shows that pets can help lower blood pressure.
Stockbrokers with high blood pressure were studied to see what happened when they adopted a pet dog or cat. Researchers  concluded that having a pet nearby helps control increases in blood pressure due to stress.

In his studies Alan Beck, ScD (Professor of Animal Ecology, Purdue University) found that the simple act of petting your dog
slows your heart rate and causes your blood pressure to drop.

An added health advantage from pet ownership is that patients may live longer after  heart attacks. Some doctors recommend
that a heart attack survivor adopt a dog because research has shown that a faithful canine companion can help prolong an owner's life.

Sharing your life with a cat may help your mental health. A study conducted at Australia's University of New England found that people who own feline friends may experience fewer psychiatric disturbances than those without cats.

Pets can help their owners overcome depression through their companionship and unconditional love. They seem to possess the
natural ability to help you relax and enjoy life more.

Pets can also help when you experience times of loneliness. English poet, Alexander Pope, has stated that histories are more full of examples of the fidelity of dogs than of friends. According to a Chinese proverb, dogs have so many friends because they wag their tails, not their tongues.

When you take care of a pet you have to develop a routine of getting out, buying food and providing exercise. This can help fight off depression and loneliness. The simple responsiblity of pet care can help you get your mind off yourself and your problems.