Pets & Your Health: Exercise, Well-Being & Allergies

The Healing Power of Pets

Keeping an animal companion does wonders for your health, lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol, boosting your immunity and mental well-being and even helping you live longer.

Get in Shape with Your Pet

A dog can make staying active more fun.

Get moving!

Exercising with Your Dog

Pets Heal the Mind

Spending time with a pet is a proven way to relieve stress and lift your spirits. Studies have found that pet owners feel less lonely, are more socially active, have better self-esteem and handle negative feelings better than people who don’t have pets.

How Pets Can Make You Sick

Pets and Allergies

THIS Causes Pet Allergies
(Hint: It's Not Fur)

Find Out

Pet Quiz

See how much you know about picking the pefect family pet

Up to 97%
That’s how accurately trained dogs
can detect early cancers
Michael Roizen, MD

View all family medicine experts

Pets & Your Health Q&As

UCLA Health People Animal Connection (PAC) Program Alternative & Complementary Medicine UCLA Health	Q	What are the health benefits of having a pet?
	A	The health benefits of having a pet include: reduced risk of allergies, asthma and eczema; lower blood pressure; a stronger heart; improved fitness; and greater calm for Alzheimer’s patients, just to name a few . . . Read More