"Pets are more than just companions; they are catalysts for mental and physical well-being," says Dr. Karen Wolfe, an Australian-born physician turned health coach. In this episode of the Reinvent Yourself podcast I sit down with Dr. Wolfe to explore the profound impact pets can have on our lives, especially in midlife. From reducing loneliness and stress to improving heart health and mental clarity, discover how the unconditional love of a pet can be a transformative force. Whether you're a lifelong animal lover or considering adopting a new furry friend, this episode offers invaluable insights into choosing the right pet for your lifestyle and maximizing the health benefits of pet ownership Bio: Dr. Karen Wolfe is a physician, health coach, and recipient of the National Wellness Institute's Lifetime Achievement Award. She is passionate about creating health through holistic approaches and making complex information accessible to all.   Time Stamps (05:03) - Talking about the surgeon general's report on loneliness (07:49) - Animals fill a spot in your life that is somewhere between spouse and child (13:00) - The surgeon general says owning an animal can reduce your health risk (19:55) - How a pet can improve your brain health in particular (23:41) - The role of animals and that emptiness feeling in life (25:52) - Doing some research is important when choosing a pet for midlife (30:12) - Having an animal in midlife can have many health benefits, Dr. Karen says   Key Points: - Pets offer significant mental and physical health benefits, including reducing loneliness, stress, and heart disease. - Choosing the right pet for your lifestyle is crucial to maximizing these benefits. - Pets can help improve serotonin levels, leading to better mental health and reduced cravings. - Volunteering at animal shelters can be a great way to experience different types of pets before adopting.   Links and Resources: Visit Covey Club Read Dr. Karen Wolfe's Article on Pet Therapy Surgeon General's Report on Loneliness   If you found this episode inspiring, please follow the podcast and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. For more resources and community support, join us at CoveyClub.com. Until next time, keep reinventing!