Why having a pet during childhood could help your body process stress, according to CU researchers

If you had a dog or cat in the house when you were growing up, your body may be better equipped to respond to stress. That’s according to a new study from the University of Colorado Boulder in collaboration with researchers at the University of Ulm in Germany. Stress initiates an inflammation response in our bodies. In small doses, it’s a normal part of our immune systems. However, chronic inflammation can lead to illnesses like, cardiovascular disease, and even depression and anxiety. Here’s where your cat or dog comes in: Researchers put participants through a series of stressful activities and measured the level of inflammation in their bodies afterward. They found that the participants who reported owning pets as kids had lower levels of inflammation after the stressful activities ended. So how do pets help our bodies process stress? Erin O’Toole talked with Chris Lowry, a professor of integrative physiology at CU who led this study. Check out a past conversation with Chris about a study that suggests a vaccine against weight gain could be on the horizon. Sign up for the In The NoCo newsletter: Visit KUNC.org Questions? Feedback? Story ideas? Email us: [email protected] Like what you're hearing? Help more people discover In The NoCo by rating the show on your favorite podcast app. Thanks! Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole Producer: Ariel Lavery Executive Producer: Brad Turner Theme music by Robbie Reverb Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.