At NChealthplans we love our pets!  This is a picture of Goose who regularly comes to work and makes our days at the office just a little bit brighter.  Pets make almost anywhere a happier place, but did you know that regular interaction with an animal can actually improve your health?  It’s true!  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is a big proponent of preventive care and although your insurance policy won’t cover pet ownership as one of the benefits, pets can have a huge impact on your health.  In fact, surveys show that pet owners gain health benefits and visit the doctor 10% less than those without pets.  Pet owners have lower blood pressure, experience less sleep disorders and are in better overall physical condition than non-pet owners.  In addition, studies also indicate that acquiring a pet will actually increase the health of the pet owner, while pet owners whose pets die can actually suffer subsequent decreases in overall health and well-being.

Interestingly enough, any pet will do!  From horses to dogs to goldfish, any kind of pet can keep you healthier.  One of my son’s friends has  a hedgehog named Patches and honestly just looking at this little guy makes me feel better.

Although the exercise of walking a dog will obviously increase health benefits, it appears that what really matters when it comes to health and pet ownership is the companionship a pet provides.  Owning and caring for a pet provides both mental and physical stimulation, both of which contribute to healthier living. (more…)