In a 2015 NICHD-funded study, a group of adolescents with type 1 diabetes each cared for a pet fish twice a day by feeding and checking water levels. Researchers found that fishkeeping teens were more disciplined about checking their own blood glucose levels, which is essential for maintaining their health. Furthermore, kids ages 10 to 13 years showed the greatest increase in self-monitoring following the pet fish intervention.

Nothing compares to the joy of coming home to a loyal companion, and it's common knowledge that the unconditional love of a pet can do more than keep you company. Learn more about the possible health effects of human-animal interactions.

Where would we be without our furry friends? Pet dogs and cats stand by us with love and loyalty, sharing our lives' ups and downs. Many people consider pets to be part of their family. And like any family member, pets can get sick.

Millions of Americans live with pets despite being allergic to them. Any furry animal, most commonly cats and dogs, may trigger allergy symptoms like sneezing or red, itchy eyes. You may think animal allergies are caused by fur, but that fuzz and fluff is merely a carrier for allergens. Pet dander, the source of allergens, is composed of tiny, even microscopic, proteins from flecks of skin shed by pets.