Owning a pet can help you live longer is the research being reported by scientific journals. Our four-legged friends reduce stress and are good for your physical, mental and emotional health.

Your furry friend could extend your life. A study published by Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Heart Association, says owning a dog is linked with living longer.

Scientists found dog owners were likely to live longer than those who didn’t have dogs: Dog owners had a 24% risk reduction for death from any cause, according to the study. For people with heart problems, living with a dog had an even greater benefit, authors said.

The potentially life-extending benefits of dog ownership could be traced in part to increased physical activity from walking the dog, authors speculated. The study found dog owners were less likely to die from heart disease compared with non-owners.

The shelters are overflowing with animals so here are some reasons to get a pet home and a new furry member for your family.  

Reasons to Get a Pet

1. Animals Reduce Stress and Boost Your Mood

Research shows our pets help relieve stress and enhance mood. Indiana University Media School reported that people who viewed cat videos felt less sad, anxious, or annoyed and more positive after they watched the videos online.

2. Increases your physical activity

Research shows people with pets get more exercise and keep active which helps with weight control and overall health.

3. Good for your heart health

The American Heart Association published a study in the journal “Circulation,” that reported an evaluation of studies of pet ownership and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The researchers concluded that “there is a substantial body of data that suggests that pet ownership is associated with a reduction in CVD risk factors [e.g., heart rate, blood pressure] and increased survival in individuals with established CVD.”

4. Helps kids read

Children who have difficulty reading do better when they read to a dog who is patient and gives them unconditional love.