R.E.A.D. Dogs Minnesota

A growing field of medical research aims to pinpoint exactly why pets can make us happier and healthier. Some studies show that animal interaction can increase a person's level of oxytocin, a hormone associated with love and trust. And the animals also benefit from positive human interaction.

To listen to the National Public Radio story or read the transcript click here.

Those of us who own pets know they make us happy. But a growing body of scientific research is showing that our pets can also make us healthy, or healthier.

That helps explain the increasing use of animals — dogs and cats mostly, but also birds, fish and even horses — in settings ranging from hospitals and nursing homes to schools, jails and mental institutions.

To read or listen to the full National Public Radio story, click here.

Featuring Jennifer & Willow and students from Excelsior

Listen to R.E.A.D. on the Pet Playground

Featuring Nancy & Sassy

Listen to R.E.A.D. on the Pet Playground