The surprising perks of ANIMAL CARE

Your four-legged friends might be better for you than you think

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There's no better feeling after a tough day than coming home to the loving greeting of an excited dog or having a softly purring cat curl up on your lap. And while they're improving your mood, your furry friends are also subtly helping you in plenty of other ways. Pet ownership also has some health benefits that you might not have realised.

Your heart & brain

Good news – pets are good for your ticker. Research has linked pet ownership with lower blood pressure and lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease. They also help stave off loneliness, which can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

“Pets provide companionship and a sense of social support, especially for those individuals living alone,” confirms vet Dr Leigh Davidson.

Your brain, too, is much better off if there's a beloved animal in your life. One study found that long-term pet ownership may help keep your mind healthy as you age, potentially helping to protect against cognitive decline.

Aiding kids' development