Pets can help boost your health Animal at home may lower blood
pressure Medical research is starting to show that having a pet
may contribute to a longer life for you. In particular, the
elderly or those who live alone may benefit most, but everyone
is a potential beneficiary. The University of Missouri's Rebecca
Johnson says in a news release that, "Research in this field is
providing new evidence on the positive impact pets have in our
lives." The health benefits include lower blood pressure,
encouragement to exercise and improved psychological health.Pets
can contribute to improved health, but be aware that some pet
diseases can be transmitted to humans. Proper care, cleanliness
and attention to the animals health is a responsibility to the
animal as well as insuring your continued good health. CNN.com
reports that a recent study by Dr. Karen Allen of the State
University of New York at Buffalo looked at 48 stockbrokers with
hypertension. Half the candidates adopted a cat or dog at the
beginning of the stu