Dogs are good for the heart — in more ways than one

Owning and caring for a dog is good for the heart, studies show.

In 2013, the American Heart Association released a statement on pet ownership and cardiovascular risk. It suggested that dog ownership is likely associated with a lower risk of heart problems because studies have shown that dog owners have “increased physical activity levels, social support and improved outcomes after a major cardiovascular event,” according to the National Institutes of Health.

More than 20 Baylor College of Medicine employees volunteered at BARC, Houston’s only municipal animal shelter, during Friendship February. Volunteers spent the day walking dogs, cleaning cages, sorting food and cuddling puppies and kittens.

Learn more about friendship, dogs and heart health.