The Health Benefits of Pets: Research and Mayo Clinic Q&A

Research shows that owning pets can have positive effects on mental and physical health. Pets can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and provide companionship. They can also increase physical activity levels and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. However, there can be downsides to pet ownership, such as financial costs, the need for care and work, and the grief experienced when a pet dies. Additionally, while pets can help ease loneliness, data on their impact during the COVID-19 pandemic is lacking. Overall, the benefits of pet ownership depend on individual circumstances and the ability to meet the needs of the pet.