Dog owners live longer than those who don’t own dogs, according to a new study of more than 3.4 million people. Researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden reviewed national registry records of men and women, ages 40 to 80. They then followed their health records for 12 years. The found dog owners had a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease than non-dog owners, as well as lower death risk from other causes.
Source: MSN, November 17, 2017.
Another possible explanation, he adds, could be a dog’s effect on its owner’s microbiome. Other studies have suggested that growing up with a dog in the house can decrease allergies and asthma in children, and Fall says that pets may provide immune-boosting benefits for adults as well.
INSIGHTS: December 2 is National Mutt Day and January 24 is Change a Pet’s Life Day, so there are two upcoming opportunities to add a pup to your household. Actually, picking out a dog at any shelter on any day will be fine.