Pets: The Surprising Ways They Benefit Our Health

We let them into our hearts, our homes, even our bedrooms. Yes, we adore our pets, a love affair that goes back tens of thousands of years, even if it began because these domesticated animals served a specific purpose, such as protection or pest control. Most pets today play less functional roles. Or do they? In today’s episode, we learn how pets aren’t just our trusted companions. They’re also partners in good health. Hosts: Zach Moore, Katie McCallum (interviewer) Expert: Dawn Brown, Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist Notable topics covered: How pets improve our mental and social well-being The surprising way pets improve our physical health The age-old controversy: are dogs better companions than cats? Fun facts about the benefits of being a pet owner How animals don’t just benefit their owners Why just watching animal videos is a mood booster Animal-assisted therapy, the ultimate example of the power of petsIf you enjoy these kinds of conversations, be sure to subscribe. And for more topics like this, visit our blog at houstonmethodist.org/blog.