According to the American Pet Products Association, a 2015 survey found that 44 percent of households in the United States own a dog and 35 percent own a cat. This is up from 37 percent and 30 percent respectively in 2012.
Those who own a pet know the feeling you get when a purring cat curls up in your lap or when a dog shakes his entire body to greet you when you walk through the door. Scientists are now validating what these pet owners already knew: having a pet is good for your health.
Research has proven that pet owners have lower blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels; less stress, depression and loneliness than those who don’t own pets. In addition, studies show that growing up with a pet reduces your risk for allergies.