Pets are good for more than your self-esteem. Besides being great buddies, according to WebMD pets can also improve your health in these five ways:
1. Prevent allergies: Many new studies show that children who grow up in a household with furry animals or on a farm, have less risk for allergies, and asthma and a stronger immune system.
2. Friend magnets: Pets are natural conversation starters so your pet can help you meet people if you have social anxiety or chronic shyness.
3. Benefit the aged: For the elderly, caring for a pet can offer exercise and companionship. Studies have also shown that for Alzheimer's patients, those who have a pet have fewer anxious outbursts.
4. Good for the mind and soul: Those who have pets are less likely to suffer from depression, are better equipped to handle stressful situations, and they also have lower blood pressure.
5. Good for your heart: Pet owners who suffer from a heart attack will live longer than those who are petless. Studies have also shown that men who own pets have lower cholesterol.
http://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/guide/5-ways-pets-improve-your-health
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