DR1 Daily News - Dominican Republic

Pets are in the media after a local organization urged the rights of animals be included amongst the topics being covered in the congressional candidates debates.

Listin Diario reminds its readers of the benefits of having pets. Pets have become part of the lives of many people, and, in fact, in some instances, they are part of the family unit. Regarding issues of mental health, a pet animal can stimulate oxytocin, endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine in the body, a very positive thing since it reduces stress, depression, and loneliness.

Pets reduce the production of cortisol, the hormone related to stress, and this can help regulate blood sugar levels. Pets reduce anxiety and nervousness. Pets help with our ability to socialize, meet new people and do new things. Also, having a pet helps a person do more exercise, whether it is walking the dog or playing with a cat, or cleaning out a...