The cute faces, wagging tails and couch cuddles definitely make us feel great. But did you know that there’s a growing body of research showing how owning a pet can significantly improve your physical, mental, and emotional health?
1. They enhance our fitness level.
If you’ve got a dog, you know that regular walks are a part of the deal. But did you know that those daily strolls are doing more than just giving your pup a bathroom break? Studies show that pet owners, especially dog owners, are more likely to engage in regular physical activity compared to non-pet owners.1 Walking dogs provides a consistent reason to move on a daily basis, which boosts cardiovascular health and overall fitness. And it’s not just walking – playtime with your pet can also get you moving and keep both you and your pet active and happy!
2. They relieve our stress.
Ever notice how much calmer you feel after snuggling with your cat or playing with your dog? There’s science behind it! Spending time with pets can actually lower your stress levels by reducing blood pressure and triggering the release of feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin.2 Whether you’re petting your dog after a tough day or just having your cat curl up next to you, pets have a magical way of calming our nerves and helping us feel more relaxed. It’s like having a built-in stress-buster with you at all times.
3. They improve our mental health.
Pets offer more than just physical health benefits—they’re great for your mental health, too. The unconditional love they give us can help reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety. If you’re having a rough day, your pet is always there to offer comfort, and just knowing they’re there can help you feel more grounded. Plus, the simple act of caring for a pet—feeding them, brushing them, and making sure they’re happy—gives you a sense of purpose and routine, which is a huge help for mental clarity and emotional stability.3
4. They are good for our hearts.
One of the most noticeable benefits of having a pet is how much calmer you feel around them. That’s because pets can actually help lower your blood pressure and heart rate just by being their sweet selves. Studies show that spending time with pets reduces the physical effects of stress and promotes better heart health.4 So, whether you’re having a quiet moment with your pet or enjoying a play session, their presence helps your body stay relaxed and your heart stay healthy.
Take Care of Your Pet…and Yourself!
As we’ve seen, pets offer a ton of health benefits that go beyond just being cute and cuddly. They help keep us active, reduce stress, and give us a boost in both mental and physical health. At Nutters Everyday Naturals, we have a whole section dedicated to keeping your beloved friends happy and healthy so you and your pet can keep eachother living your best lives!
Footnotes:
- Tak, T., & Grafft, H. (2025, March 4). Dogs are good for your health. Mayo Clinic Health System. Retrieved from
- Khalid, A., & Naqvi, S. R. (2019). Pet interaction reduces stress and enhances positive mood. Human-Animal Interaction, 7(1), 44-55.
- American Psychiatric Association. (2023, March 1). Americans Note Overwhelming Positive Mental Health Impact of Their Pets in New Poll; Dogs and Cats Equally Beneficial. American Psychiatric Association.
- O’Haire, M. E. (2016). Companion animals and human health: Benefits, challenges, and the road ahead. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 5(9), 95.