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Dogs are 100% man’s/woman’s best friend. Through my breast cancer battle and beyond, the love and companionship from our sweet fur babies goes unmatched. They always seem to know exactly what you need. I couldn’t imagine a life without a dog in it!

Shannon

Pictured: Shannon’s pups

According to helpguide.org, pets come with some powerful health benefits. They report caring for a dog, cat, or other animal can help relieve depression and anxiety, lower stress, and improve overall health. Most pet owners are clear about the immediate joys that come with sharing their lives with companion animals. However, many of us remain unaware of the physical and mental health benefits that can also accompany the pleasure of snuggling up to a furry friend. It’s only recently that studies have begun to scientifically explore the benefits of the human-animal bond.

Pets have evolved to become acutely attuned to humans and our behavior and emotions. Dogs, for example, can understand many of the words we use, but they’re even better at interpreting our tone of voice, body language, and gestures. And like any good human friend, a loyal dog will look into your eyes to gauge your emotional state and try to understand what you’re thinking and feeling (and to work out when the next walk or treat might be coming, of course).