For many of us, coming home from a long day at work means that we’ll be met at the door by an adoring and eager friend - our pet! All that love is such an ego boost. Pets are good for more than your self-esteem. Besides being great buddies, pets can also improve your health in these five ways:

• Prevent allergies: Many new studies show that children who grow up in a household with furry animals or on a farm, have less risk for allergies, and asthma and a stronger immune system.
• Friend magnets: Pets are natural conversation starters so your pet can help you meet people if you have social anxiety or chronic shyness.
• Benefit the aged: For the elderly, caring for a pet can offer exercise and companionship. Studies have also shown that for Alzheimer’s patients, those who have a pet have fewer anxious outbursts.
• Good for the mind and soul: Those who have pets are less likely to suffer from depression, are better equipped to handle stressful situations, and they also have lower blood pressure.
• Good for your heart: Pet owners who suffer from a heart attack will live longer than those who are petless. Studies have also shown that men who own pets have lower cholesterol.