Paws FOR THOUGHT

The data is in: caring for a pet is good for your health

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Pets make our lives better – that much we know.

But a growing body of research shows they’re also good for our health, especially when it comes to mental and emotional well-being. A new handbook from global animal-health company Zoetis offers practical ways to make pet companionship more accessible.

It's been one of those days when everything that could go wrong, did. You feel drained, defeated and your self-confidence is close to zero. But as you arrive home, you're greeted by your faithful pet – visibly overjoyed to welcome you. Soon, the stress you felt becomes a distant memory.

This kind of emotional rescue isn't just in your head, and it isn't rare. It's the power of the human-animal bond – a connection so profound, a new handbook is seeking to shape policy around the world so that companion animals can play a bigger role in our lives.

SMALL PAWS, BIG IMPACT

Almost half of households globally have a pet, and the bond between humans and animals exists across generations, nationalities and socioeconomic status.