Looking for companionship, social support, unconditional love and lower stress? Well research shows that pets provide all these, as well as opportunities for exercise and a patient listener who never criticizes and always understands.
Reduced stress and increased exercise can decrease the risk of heart disease, although the scientific evidence for a direct link between pet ownership and heart health is still uncertain.
But one thing is certain. Pets can greatly improve the quality of life for many people, especially lonely seniors who need companionship and sometimes even a reason to get up in the morning.
Of course, pet ownership also carries responsibilities and costs, so it isn’t for everyone. Dogs, cats, parakeets and other small birds are short-lived compared with people, but the right pet pal can fill a lonely life with many happy years.