Your Best Friend Is Living Longer

It's not just us humans who are living longer than ever—our cats and dogs are too.

The 2016 State of Pet Health report from Banfield Pet Hospital says dogs are now living an average of 11.8 years, that's up from 2013 when they lived an average of 11 years.

Cats are also living longer, on average 12.9 years, which equates to roughly 70 in human years. That's up from 12.1 years in the 2013 study, and 11 years back in 2002.

Veterinarians say pets are living longer, primarily due to "education about pet health" which includes more pet check-ups and medications.

It's also about better nutrition as gourmet pet foods (which some consider healthier) now account for more than one-half of the U.S. market. To save money on caring for your aging pet, vets say you'll want to be proactive with preventative care, and get pet insurance. (Time)