This article was written with the help of my pets. When I lost focus or started to tire, I grabbed my dogs’ leads and they happily joined me for some fresh air and a little outdoor adventure. I freely admit that my pets help my own health, productivity and happiness – and I hope I help them to be happy and healthy too.

It’s widely recognised that pets can help support humans’ health and wellbeing – but the benefits should be mutual. Our pets are sentient beings who deserve to be treated with care and respect, not as tools to support humans’ wellbeing to the detriment of their own.

Given that many countries, including the US and UK are currently facing an obesity crisis in both humans and pets, what can owners do to ensure they aren’t unintentionally damaging the health of their pets while relying on them for comfort and companionship?

Here are five ways for you and your pet to get healthier and happier together.

Companion animals can help relieve stress and distress. Research has shown that the physical presence of a dog can reduce humans’ blood pressure and heart rate during a demanding task – more so than the presence of a family member or friend. However, people asked to undertake stressful tasks in the presence of a friendly, but unknown, animal didn’t reveal any benefits.

Pets, then, can be an important source of comfort, security and support – a safe haven – for their owners. But pets, too, find solace in their humans. They can be calmed by their presence and enjoy affection; however, intense human–animal interaction........

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