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      • Diabetes
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  1. Home
  2. Healthy Living
  3. Healthy Bond for Life - Pets
  4. Owning a Pet Can Change Your Life

Owning a Pet Can Change Your Life

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Spending time with your pet can be relaxing, encouraging the release of endorphins, which are brain chemicals that help us de-stress and feel good. And petting a beloved animal can even help lower your blood pressure.

If you don’t have a pet in your life, consider adopting or fostering one. According to the Human Animal Bond Research Institute and Mars Petcare, market research reinforces the social bond between humans and pets. In fact, 80% of pet owners say their pet makes them feel less lonely. Eighty-five percent of pet owners and non-pet owners believe interacting with a companion animal can help reduce loneliness, while 76% agree human-animal interactions can help address social isolation.

So, what are you waiting for?

Learn more about heart health, and learn more about shelters near you where you can adopt a pet or ask about fostering. You might form a healthy bond for life.


Last Reviewed: Aug 26, 2024

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Healthy Bond for Life - Pets

  • Do Dog Owners Live Longer?
  • Owning a Pet Can Change Your Life
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*All health/medical information on this website has been reviewed and approved by the American Heart Association, based on scientific research and American Heart Association guidelines. Find more information on our content editorial process.

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