Pets are good for you

Petting your cat or dog releases a relaxation hormone which can help you to unwind and lower your blood pressure.  The higher-quality relationship you have with a pet,  can impact your life positively.  Petting animals helps humans feel connected and enhances their social life.  Research shows most dog walkers have lower blood pressure than people without  a four-legged friend.  People with pets are generally happier, more trusting and less lonely than people without. This doesn't work for everyone and there are other ways to avoid stress and loneliness, but having a pet often   gives some people the emotional support they need.