Everybody has known this for years. Dog owners live longer and report being happier than non dog owners. How can you not be happier when you’ve got a buddy who makes you laugh, who gets you off the couch and walking more outside, and who is always always happy to see you? I’ve met a lot more people and made several good friends solely because of my little buddy.
My wife has made a lot of friends by taking our pooch to the local dog park. I’ve gotten to know a lot of our neighbors well when taking him out for walks in the neighborhood.