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Owning a pet may improve your health!

Stress related illnesses account for a large number of medical bills and health insurance claims every year. If you want to decrease your stress levels or if you are just looking for some extra company, you may want to consider getting a pet.
A number of studies over the past decade have found some evidence to suggest that those who have a cat or a dog enjoy a more positive outlook on life, are more relaxed and are often healthier than their non-pet owning counterparts. Reported benefits of pet ownership include:
• Improved mood
• Lower blood pressure
• Increased fitness
• Reduced stress
• Increased immunity
• Lower risk of heart disease
Pets are a big responsibility and do require some additional work but the rewards of pet ownership appear to be many.
In addition to the list of potential benefits above, owning a pet can get you out and about (walking the dog) and interacting with those who live nearby. Dogs are a good icebreaker at the park and can foster social contact between strangers.
And if there are increased health benefits in owning a pet then it may lead to better general health and fewer claims on your Maine health insurance (unless of course, you have an allergy!). But would that cover the cost of the pet food?