Appliance of Science: Why pets are so good for your health

Pets don't have to be cute and fluffy to help boost our mood and health.

There are many compelling studies on health benefits associated with pets. Picture: iStock

Almost everyone I know seems to have added a new pet to their household this past year. Mostly dogs, the odd cat and one or two more exotic animals. I’d be among them if I could ever persuade my husband as to how much we really need a dog. Science has my back on this one, with many compelling studies on health benefits associated with pets. While some are well documented and accepted as the norm, there are some more unusual studies that have expanded the focus of what exactly animals can do for our health and well-being.

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