Increased physical activity from pets has helped reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, increase survival rates from heart attacks, and increase the physical well-being in assisted living communities for the elderly (McNicholas et al., 2005). These same studies have also shown increases in mental health and social interaction as part of pet ownership. Pet owners were more likely to have longer conversations with other people during a regular walk with a pet than non-owners. It was also found that children were more socially open in an environment where they interacted with pets in a park. Introducing turtles and rabbits to children has also led to increased interactivity that positively teaches necessary social behaviors. According to Friedmann (1995): A recent large-scale epidemiological study has provided evidence that pet ownership can protect people from developing coronary heart disease or slow its progression. Addressed differences between pet owners and non-pet owners on physiological variables associated with increased risk of developing coronary heart disease, addressing some of the same issues assessed in the Coronary Heart Disease Patient Survival Study