Do you have a pet? Having a pet may make you healthier and live longer.
Priority Health Director of Behavioral Health Dr. Charletta Dennis says owning a pet helps with physical activity and improves your mental health.
“Knowing that having a pet can be a very comforting type emotion,” Dennis said. “Playing with pets can release endorphins. These are the feel-good hormones. So this can eventually improve your mood and reduce stress.”
Dennis believes having a pet can help extend your life, but she says it’s a big commitment. If it’s too much for you, she says you can always volunteer at an animal shelter.
