Life in the doghouse: Should we allow our pets in our beds?

Should you really invite the dog onto the mattress, asks Kya deLongchamps

Scientific studies have proven that sleeping with an animal on or in the bed can lower blood pressure, protect cardiovascular health, and improve sleep patterns. Picture: iStock

I have slept in the leggy embrace of a lurcher, have been nipped smartly by a JRT at midnight, and been dragged into a months-long territorial dispute with a particularly aristocratic cat. Scientific studies have proven sleeping with an animal on or in the bed can lower blood pressure, protect cardiovascular health, and improve sleep patterns. 

Equally, it could wreck your night hours, compromise your health and put a rude full-stop to your love life.