by Melissa Scavelli
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Most
pet owners probably already know this, but now a study says playing with your
dog can lead to better heart health.
Dog owners are 31 percent less
likely than those without pets to die from a heart attack or stroke, according
to the American Heart Association.
AHA also said the study showed
the people who live with dogs and have prior heart health issues actually had a
substantial decrease in risk of death.
Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Nicole Schlechter visited dogs at Nashville Humane
Association earlier this month to help show that playing with dogs is good for
your heart.
Dr. Schlechter said owning a pet
is proven to reduce stress levels while improving emotional support and increases
physical fitness. She has two dogs of her own, Emma and Junior.