The connection between pets and human health has been studied for decades, and research continues to confirm what pet owners already know: animals enrich our lives in profound ways. They provide companionship, lift our mood, provide comfort during difficult times, encourage physical activity, and add structure to our daily lives.

How Pets Support Physical Health

Heart Health

Chronic stress harms the body by raising blood pressure, heart rate and triggering inflammation. Pets can buffer that stress. Petting or cuddling with an animal releases oxytocin, a hormone that fosters closeness and relaxation. Pets also inspire physical activity—walking a dog or playing fetch—both of which support cardiovascular health.

Mental Health Benefits

Pets require care and attention, which helps owners feel useful and connected, while also supporting daily routines—especially important during stressful times.

Social Health Benefits

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, social isolation and loneliness put a person at risk of developing serious mental and physical health conditions. Pets can strengthen social ties and ease loneliness. Walking a dog often sparks conversations with neighbors, and sharing pet photos online creates opportunities for connection. These small interactions can make a big difference: people who feel socially connected tend to live longer, healthier lives.

Balancing the Benefits

While pets offer many health benefits, they aren’t without challenges:

• Sleep disruption: Pets in the bedroom may bring comfort but may also wake you at night.
• Aging and care needs: Pets grow old, sometimes requiring costly veterinary care.
• Physical demands: Caring for a pet can be difficult if mobility is limited. Dogs need walks, and cats, especially young ones, need active play.
• Safety risks: Pets moving underfoot may increase the risk of falls.

From Couch Nappers to Treat Seekers – Let’s Meet Your Pets!

Do you have a furry, feathery or scaly friend at home? We want to see them! We’re collecting pet photos from across the Health District inviting you to tag your submission with a fun category, such as:

• Best Escape Artist
• Most Likely to Nap on a Laptop
• Food Thief
• Best Dressed
• Best Hair Day (or Worst Hair Day!)
• Most Dramatic Foodie
• Best Treat Seeker
• Sleepiest Pet
• Best Workout Buddy
• Most Unusual Pet
• Pawsome Posse – for households with more than one pet

Submit your pet photo and tell us which category fits best—or create your own if something unique captures your pet’s personality. We’ll post the full collection on SharePoint for everyone to enjoy.

Deadline to submit: October 29, 2025

Send photos to: disheditor@snhd.org.

We can’t wait to showcase the pets that keep our staff company outside of work!