Keeping a pet can help us live longer

No wonder we are a nation of animal lovers. According to research, owning a pet can help keep down stress levels, helping to prevent heart disease and depression. Even watching a tank full of tropical fish may lower blood pressure, at least for a while. Studies have also shown that heart attack victims who keep pets live longer.

According to Chris Jones, publisher of the pet information web site www.petclubuk.com, looking after a pet brings out our nurturing instinct and makes us feel safe and unconditionally accepted. "Pets make wonderful, loving companions and everyone should consider having one as part of their household. The chances are you'll live longer and feel better by owning a pet," he adds.

"It doesn't matter what pet you get - it could be a dog, cat, parrot, a goldfish or snake - the only thing that matters is that the animal really interests you. It is important that the pet you choose fits your temperament, lifestyle and living space - and that the chemistry is compatible before you take a pet into your home. Otherwise it could be the source of additional stress."

Among the many medical studies that claim owning a pet is good for your heart, one suggests that stroking a pet prompts your brain to release endorphins or 'feel good' hormones. This helps you feel calm and therefore lowers your heart rate and blood pressure.

Families who own a dog or cat are not as stressed and visit their doctors less often than those who don't, say scientists from Cambridge University. Pets make you feel optimistic and relaxed, which lowers your blood pressure. Dogs give the best results as you get exercise when you take them for walks. Studies show that older people who own pets are more healthy and active than those who don't.

Pet owners are less likely to suffer anxiety, loneliness and have more confidence than people without pets. They have a positive effect on your emotional health, and people who live alone are less likely to be depressed than those without a pet.

Some animals can warn their owners about oncoming illness and there are many reports about dogs detecting cancer and some can identify other types of illness, such as hypoglycaemia (dangerously-low blood sugar levels) in diabetics and oncoming epileptic fits.

These proven health benefits of owning a pet are strong reasons to get one but consider all the options first and do your homework. www.petclubuk.com offers a wealth of advice and tips on how to choose the right pet for you and on keeping it happy and healthy too.