National Walk the Dog Day is Tuesday, Feb. 22. Of course your pup is always up for a walk, even through your own backyard. But did you know walking the dog (and dog ownership in general) is also good for you? Here's why.

• Dog owners are more likely to engage in moderate physical activity than non-dog owners. In fact, dog owners walk an average of 300 minutes per week, while those without a dog walk 168 minutes per week on average.
• A review of studies by the American Heart Association found that dog ownership was associated with a 24% risk reduction for all-cause mortality as compared to non-ownership.
• Playing with or even just petting a dog lowers blood pressure, slows heart rate, regulates breathing and relaxes muscle tension.
• When dogs and humans interact with one another they get a dose of oxytocin, a.k.a. the “cuddle hormone.”
• Dog ownership is linked to a 21% reduction in the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
• Having a strong attachment to a pet makes people feel more connected to their communities and to their human relationships.

To learn more go to TurfMutt.com.