$FIDO

One of your best investments may leave muddy footprints through the house and sleep at the foot of your bed. The value of pets is becoming increasingly studied and quantified in recent times.

Their benefit is mostly physical and psychological. An Australian study found that pet owners reported 15% fewer doctor visits than non-pet counterparts. Based on similar findings it was estimated that pets saved the US healthcare system US$11.7b in 2015.

The causes are obvious; a companion during loneliness, a daily workout partner and general sparks of joy. It was found pet owners had lower blood pressure and recovered from heart surgery quicker, owners had decreased incidences of loneliness and depression and increased self esteem within children.

Even if it’s not so obviously quantified, the cost of dog food is paying itself over many many times over.