New Study Finds More Evidence Linking Dog Ownership to Better Heart Health
A new study has found additional evidence to link dog ownership to better cardiovascular health.
The study, conducted by an international research team lead by Dr. Andrea Maugeri, examined the effects of dog ownership on cardiovascular disease and risk factors among participants in Central Europe. The researchers found that, with the exception of smoking, dog owners were more likely to have habits and behaviors — such as exercise patterns and diet — conducive to better heart health than non-owners.
The results affirm those of numerous other studies conducted elsewhere that indicate a link between dog ownership and better cardiovascular health.
“In general, people who owned any pet were more likely to report more physical activity, better diet and blood sugar at ideal level. The greatest benefits from having a pet were for those who owned a dog, independent of their age, sex and education level.”
— Andrea Maugeri, Researcher, the International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne’s University Hospital
For more information on the study, check out the full article from Mayo Clinic Proceedings.