Our furry friends don’t just capture our hearts—they also help keep them strong! From lowering stress to keeping us moving, research shows that spending time with animals can do wonders for our cardiovascular health.
The benefits
Here are some ways that pets can help keep your heart in top shape:
Lower blood pressure
Pet owners tend to have lower blood pressure than those who don’t own pets—and even simply petting a dog can make a difference. This is due to the boost in oxytocin (the love hormone) and reduction in cortisol (the primary stress hormone) that come from spending time with animals.
Reduce risk
According to The American Heart Association, owning a dog may reduce your risk of dying from a heart attack or stroke by 31 percent. Cat owners have also been shown to have a reduced risk of cardiovascular mortality. Plus, the regular exercise that comes from walking your dog can further lower your risk of heart disease.
Try it out
This month spend a little extra time with your pet—they’ll love it just as much as your heart! If you don’t have a pet of your own, offer to pet-sit for your neighbors, take a friend’s dog for a walk, or volunteer with your local animal shelter.
Allergies got ya down?
Just because you’re allergic to animals doesn’t mean you can’t reap the benefits. Consider donating to your local animal shelter or pet rescue: studies show that acts of generosity can lower stress, release feel-good hormones like endorphins, and even help your heart by promoting lower blood pressure.
This article was originally published in the February 2026 issue of delicious living magazine.
