General wellnessHealthy agingPet health

7 remarkable ways your pet can add years to your life

Pet ownership brings unconditional love, plus some unexpected health benefits.

Jan, 2026
LearnPets and health7 remarkable ways your pet can add years to your life
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They keep you on your toes
Pets give you a sense of purpose
Fur babies strengthen your heart
Pets ease anxiety and depression
They boost your immune system
Animals help kids grow up happy and strong
Pets complete your tribe

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There are countless reasons to love your furriest family member—those big adoring eyes, the wet kisses, the warm nuzzles after a long day, not to mention the ways in which pets ease stress and loneliness. And you can add a growing number of health benefits to the list, too. Read on for ways pet ownership can boost your health and add years to your life.

Written byRose Hayes, MA, RN.
Medically reviewed byAnn Wendling, MD, MPH.March, 2025
Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Benefits of physical activity. Published November 1 + 16
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