Believe it or not, owning a pet can do wonders for the body and soul. Not only are they proven to lower blood pressure and boost immunity, they can even fight off depression, according to WebMD.  They could even improve your social life and lead to an overall more satisfying life.

My family rescued our little beagle- chiwawa almost eight years ago when she was abandoned in a trailer park and left for days with nothing to eat or drink.  We had never owned a dog before, and having her as an addition to the family was something completely new. I never realized how big of an impact such a little four-legged animal could have on our family, but over the years she has given back in ways we never expected.

One summer, we trucked our little pup across the country when we drove out to Oklahoma for my cousins’ wedding. On the way, she made us countless friends, alleviated pressure between my family members and was a constant bright-eyed, tail wagging little bundle of fur ready to give all of her love.

For nearly 25 years, research has shown that living with pets provides certain health benefits.  Forget the old way of thinking that living with a pet would make your children more likely to become allergic to that pet, because that just isn’t the case. In fact, a growing number of studies have suggested that kids growing up in a home with pets will have less risk of allergies and asthma. Dogs are dirty animals. Babies who have greater exposure to dirt and allergens have a stronger immune system.

Not only do dogs provide benefits for babies, they help young and old alike. Studies have shown that Alzheimer’s patients have fewer anxious outbursts if there is an animal in the home. Their caregivers also feel less burdened when a pet is around. Also, walking a dog or just caring for a pet for elderly people who are able can provide companionship and exercise.

So how are pets good for our mind and soul? Pet owners with AIDS are far less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets. One study supports that stockbrokers with high blood pressure who adopted a cat or dog had lower blood pressure in stressful situations than did people without pets.

Playing with a dog can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, nerve transmitters that are known to have pleasurable and calming properties.  Some people take drugs to raise serotonin and dopamine but the healthy way to do this is to pet your dog, go for a walk or even play outside with your furry friend.

Forget Internet matchmaking, dogs are the ones great for making love connections.  While outside on your walk, a dog is a natural conversation starter. It’s amazing whom you might meet or what kind of interesting opportunities you will come across with a little help from your pet.

A pet is certainly a great friend, but did you ever think all of these benefits could come from them? So, make sure to take the time to show them your love and appreciation in return.

Thank you federico stevanin for the photo.