There’s a reason dogs are known as man’s best friend. Today over 60 percent of Americans have pets: 77 million dogs, 93 million cats and many other creatures make up the $45 billion dollar pet industry. But you can’t put a price on the happiness a pet provides, according to a recently published study. In trials conducted studying pets within the family, psychologists found that pet owners were reaping the same beauty benefits that sleep, healthy eating and exercise can offer. Pets prod their owners into living healthier lifestyles and help them open up to deeper, more meaningful relationships. So give your pooch an extra pat today, and if you’ve been debating a visit to an animal shelter, get up and go!
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