Many dog and cat owners can attest to the fact that their four-legged family members are a constant source of joy, love and companionship.

Scientists are proving that interacting with animals can improve your mental well-being. But more than that, studies have found that caring for almost any kind of animal can have therapeutic benefits.

Touching or handling another living creature has been proven to relieve anxiety. The study also found that it really did not matter if the participant liked animals previously or not.

The study looked at the care of rabbits, horses, cats, dogs and guinea pigs – all of them offered similar benefits. But the pet need not be cuddly to help you. Fish and even crickets were proven to ease depression.

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• Emotional Health