An estimated 68% of U.S. households have a pet1. Not only are your pets fun to play with, there are also real physical and emotional benefits to owning a pet:

  • Pets get you moving. Pets can increase your opportunities to get outside and exercise. Regular walking or playing with your pet can help lower your stress, cholesterol and triglyceride levels and can even decrease your blood pressure.
  • Pets help banish the blues. Pets can help combat loneliness and depression by providing companionship.
  • Pets can help you connect. Pets can help you connect by swapping stories with other pet owners. People, especially those with dogs, will stop and talk with you when they see you walking your dog.

The right pet for your home and family can bring you years of fun, companionship and health benefits.

And if you already have a dog or cat, Horizon BCBSNJ can help keep your furry friend healthy with a discount on pet insurance.

Sources:

¹https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-health-benefits-and-risks-of-pet-ownership
https://pets.webmd.com/ss/slideshow-pets-improve-your-health