How Pets Help Reduce Chronic Disease Risk: The Science Behind the Bond

Key Takeaways

• Studies have linked pet ownership to increased physical activity, a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and early death, as well as a reduced risk of allergies in children. 
• Pets act as natural stress relievers and social icebreakers to help you manage chronic stress and create community and connection with those around you.

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While pets can quickly and easily become part of the family, they’re more than just lovable companions. Emerging research suggests your furry friend might also be a surprising key to better health. 

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Whether they encourage daily walks and outdoor time or provide comfort during tough or lonely moments, pets can have a powerful impact on both mental and physical well-being. Studies have linked pet ownership to increased physical activity, improved mood, boosted immunity, and even a reduced risk of some chronic diseases. Continue reading to discover how your pet can help you lead a longer, healthier, and happier life. 

Physical Activity and Cardiovascular Health

While most of us understand the importance of physical activity for our health, actually engaging in it can be the most challenging part. But when you have an energetic dog begging for their daily walk or a kitty mewing for playtime, it’s hard to ignore. Daily walks, playtime, or simply just chasing your pet around the house or yard all add up to more physical activity. A 2023 meta-analysis of 49 studies found a strong link between pet ownership and higher levels of physical activity compared to non-pet owners.¹

This increase in physical activity may translate into big benefits for your health, especially when it comes to your heart. Research from a large Swedish study following over three million people for up to 12 years found that dog ownership was linked to a lower risk of death and cardiovascular disease, especially for people living alone. For singles, owning a dog was associated with a 33% lower risk of death and an 8% lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Some of the biggest benefits were seen in owners of active hunting breeds, who likely got even more physical activity.²

Stress Reduction and Mental Well-Being

While chronic stress may feel emotionally draining, it’s a significant risk factor for serious health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.³ And while pets can add some levels of stress when it comes to caring for them and dealing with the loss of one, overall, they play a powerful role in stress reduction. 

A 2022 survey by the American Heart Association found that 95% of pet parents rely on their pets for stress relief through snuggling, laughter, and helping them feel less lonely.⁴ Research supports these claims, as numerous studies have found that pet owners have smaller physiological responses to stress, including lower increases in heart rate and blood pressure, as well as a lower resting heart rate and blood pressure, compared to those without pets.⁵

And if you don’t have a pet of your own, pet therapy for stress reduction may mean finding a (friendly) dog or cat to pet and play with, which could have similar stress-reducing effects. Studies with children and college-aged students have found that short, routine interactions with a dog have beneficial effects on well-being and reduce stress levels. ^{6, 7}

Social Connection and Reduced Isolation

Strong social connections are a vital component of overall health and well-being, as loneliness and isolation can have a profound impact on both mental and physical health. Social isolation and loneliness can increase your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, depression, anxiety, and dementia.⁸ While pets provide companionship in and of themselves, they also facilitate the creation of social connections with others. 

Dogs, in particular, are great at getting you out of the house and interacting with people around you. They often act as social icebreakers, sparking conversation and creating a sense of community with other dog lovers that cross your path.⁹

Immune System and Allergy Prevention

Growing up with pets may do more than provide warm and cozy childhood memories for your little ones. It may also strengthen their immune system and reduce the risk of allergies as they age. Research has found that living with cats and dogs is associated with a reduced risk of developing atopy, a genetic predisposition to allergic diseases such as asthma, eczema, and hay fever.¹⁰

One reason may be the influence of pets on the gut microbiome. Babies exposed to pets have been found to have higher levels of certain beneficial bacteria, including Ruminococcus and Oscillospira, in their gut compared to those without pet exposure. These two bacteria are associated with a lower risk of both allergies and childhood obesity.¹¹

So, while pets may track in extra dirt and shed a little hair, they can also help create stronger immune systems, especially in children.

The Bottom Line

Pets may come with their fair share of extra work, but they have a lot to offer when it comes to love, companionship, and benefits for your health. From encouraging you to move more, reducing stress, cultivating community, and even helping to shape a strong immune system, the benefits of pet ownership go far beyond companionship. 

Whether you already have a furry friend, are considering adding one to the family, or need an excuse to love a little extra on a friend’s pet, science supports pets as a simple and effective way to benefit your health.  

Learn More With Signos’ Expert Advice

Taking care of your health isn’t just about making big lifestyle changes; small daily habits add up, such as walking your dog or giving your cat nightly cuddles to ease stress. Just like pets can support your overall well-being, Signos can help you understand how your body responds to food, activity, and stress in real time. Learn more about glucose and its impact on your health.