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9 Health Benefits of Pet Ownership

If you have a dog or cat, you may already know the wonderful perks of having a furry companion. The happy greeting as soon as you come home from work, the endless kisses, and the comfort of a snuggle can make you appreciate each day.

Whether you're a cat or dog (or maybe small rodent or reptile) person, there are numerous health benefits to owning a pet. Your pet brings many other health benefits besides unconditional and loyal love. Studies have shown that having a pet lowers blood pressure, reduces your stress and anxiety, boosts your immunity, and boosts your mood. 

What are some health benefits associated with pet ownership?

Pet allergies are the most common allergies and can often trigger asthma. However, studies have found that animals, specifically cats in your home, can help you develop immunity to asthma and other allergies. 

Also, according to a study that was published in the Journal of Physical Activity, dog owners walk an average of four walks a week, which can amount to 160 minutes of physical activity. Being physically active can also have many perks to a healthy and happy life.

9 Health Benefits of Pet Ownership:
  • Natural mood enhancers
  • Helps your blood pressure stay in check
  • Lowers your cholesterol
  • Boosts heart health
  • Helps develop immunity to asthma
  • Helps fight depression
  • Helps you stay active
  • Pets help children and young teens overcome limitations
  • Helps build immunity to allergies

What are some of the other health benefits of pet ownership?

Dr. Jeff Werber joins Melanie Cole, MS, to share the nine health benefits of pet ownership and why pets can boost your health and happiness.
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9 Health Benefits of Pet Ownership
Featured Speaker:
Jeff Werber, DVM
Dr Jeff WerberDr. Jeff Werber has dedicated his life to the care and protection of animals. A renowned veterinarian and pet parenting specialist, Dr. Jeff maintains that pets are more than just companions; they are part of the family and deserve to be treated that way.

A top graduate of the University of California Davis Veterinary School, Dr. Jeff established his Los Angeles-based private clinic, Century Veterinary Group, in 1988. Dr. Jeff cares for the pets of Hollywood's biggest stars, including Britney Spears, Julia Roberts, Ben Affleck, Eddie Murphy, Paula Abdul, Rod Stewart, Mark Wahlberg, Patrick Dempsey, Mandy Moore, Jennifer Love Hewitt and many more – along with those of everyday pet owners.

He is a highly sought after and frequent guest speaker on a number of national news programs and has lent his expertise on Dr. Oz, CBS's The Early Show and Sunday Morning, CNN Sunday Morning, Fox News Channel and Rachael Ray.

As an Emmy Award winning veterinarian, he has hosted the wildly popular Petcetera on Animal Planet Network, sharing his compassion and knowledge with millions of viewers around the country, encouraging responsible pet ownership and care.

Dr. Jeff is dedicates his time to many groups in the animal welfare community, such as Best Friends Animal Society, Last Chance for Animals, Hounds and Heroes and a number of rescue groups including Angel City Pits, Ace of Hearts, Forever Fido, Wags and Walks, Furry Friends, Eloise, Bill Foundation, among others. He also serves on the advisory board of Veterinary Economics Magazine.

Dr. Jeff has translated a childhood love of pets into a career committed to raising and shaping national awareness of the importance of high quality pet care.