People with pets have been found to have lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels than people with no pets, even when matched for weight, diets, and smoking habits. Just the presence of a dog during a medical testing situation, like a physical exam or heart stress test, resulted in lower blood pressure and heart rates in both adults and children. Companion animals have also been beneficial in nursing homes.In facilities where animals became part of the therapy, the use of prescription drugs and care costs dropped. Even for elderly persons living at home, those with pets had fewer health problems and medical appointments. Most people do not invite pets into their home for the health benefits, but it may not be long before doctors start saying: adopt two dogs and call me in the morning.