We have a new member to our household — a 5-month-old Golden Retriever named Jasmine. For as long as I can remember, I've had a pet of some sort in my life. Our previous Golden, Lambeau, recently passed after spending 12 years with us. How great that science finds that our furry friends not only keep us company, but that they also provide a boost to both our mental and physical health as well!

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recognize the significant health benefits among people who own pets. They note that most households in the United States have at least one pet. The benefits extend across all ages, from children to senior citizens.

You may recall a study a couple of years ago that found that dog owners tend to get more exercise than those who do not have a walkable pet. People with dogs tend to walk their pets an average of 24 minutes twice a day, and they often take longer walks about three times per week. All of this adds up to more physical activity, which can help foster weight loss, reduce blood pressure and blood sugar, and can boost heart health.

Of course, exercise alone also helps mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. However, a new study goes beyond those more commonly noted pet-owning benefits.

Researchers at Miami University and St. Louis University conducted three experiments among pet owners and found that our animal companions also serve as social and emotional support and make us happier and healthier. Specifically, says Allen R. McConnell PhD,

"Pet owners had greater self-esteem…tended to be less lonely, were more conscientious, were more extroverted, tended to be less fearful and tended to be less preoccupied than non-owners."

Other previously noted health benefits are that pet owners report fewer headaches, less trouble sleeping, and there is often a reduction in the number of doctor visits, especially among elderly patients.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) calls the mutually beneficial relationship between people and their pets the "Human-Animal Bond." The AVMA recognizes that this bond has existed for thousands of years and that it is very important to both client and community health.

So do you want a pet, but really aren't ready to tackle all of the responsibility and challenges that come with puppyhood? Why not adopt an older dog? The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals celebrates November as "Adopt a Senior Pet Month." Older pets are often easy to train, are super-loving, and settle in more quickly than younger animals. There are also a lot more senior pets in need of homes, so you would have the satisfaction of knowing you probably saved a life.