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It's commonly believed that pets are good for the health of their owners. Is there any scientific evidence to prove it?

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It's commonly believed that pets are good for the health of their owners. Is there any scientific evidence to prove it?

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Erika Freidman, a Professor at the University of Maryland School of Nursing, says studies have shown that animals are good for our health, whether we own our own or just spend some time with one. According to Friedman, pet owners have better health, fewer doctor visits, higher self esteem, and tend to be more independent than non-pet owners. She says that dogs can also motivate people to exercise.

And people who walk with a dog walk faster and for longer periods of time than people who walk alone.

-Dr. Andrea Looney, DVM for the "Purina® Animal Instincts" Podcast Series

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