Pets can contribute to physical health benefits like lower blood pressure through several mechanisms. One key way is through the calming effect of interacting with pets, which can reduce stress and anxiety levels. The act of petting a dog or cat, for example, has been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone that can help lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health. Additionally, owning a pet often encourages physical activity, such as walking a dog or playing with a cat, which can lead to improved fitness levels and lower blood pressure over time. The companionship and emotional support provided by pets can also help reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, which are risk factors for high blood pressure.
