Why pets can be good for you Updated Lifestyle Reporter Share this: Owning a pet can bring great rewards mentally and physically. Here are a few reasons why you should consider it. Pet and owner/ iStock We all know how great it can be to own a pet. Some of them are funny, some sassy and most of them give us unconditional love and cuddles. But did you know that there are proven health benefits to owning a pet? According to News in Health, “interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure. Other studies have found that animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost your mood.”