As American Heart Month draws to a close, we wanted to highlight one of the greatest ways we know to both heal and OPEN your heart. Having a pet (or even just cozying up with a cuddly friend) will not only fill your heart with joy and love but can also improve its health. According to Harvard, "pet ownership, especially having a dog, is probably associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. Several studies have shown that dog owners have lower blood pressure than non-owners — probably because their pets have a calming effect on them and because dog owners tend to get more exercise. The power of touch also appears to be an important part of this 'pet effect.' Several studies show that blood pressure goes down when a person pets a dog."
This doesn't just extend to dog owners; connecting to any animal that speaks to your heart is sure to do your heart good. If you're looking to adopt a new best friend or make a bunch of furry friends through volunteer work, check out some of our local Fort Collins shelters, like Bounce Animal Rescue and All Aboard Animal Rescue, or visit an online site like Pet Finder or Adopt a Pet that can connect you with animals in need of homes in your areas.
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