Animals can provide comfort and companionship to people, but that's not the only benefit they have.

After his stroke last March, Leonard Kessler says these very special bulldogs became more than man's best friend, taking on an important role in his recovery. "In all seriousness the pups here are as much a part of the therapy as almost anybody else."

Speech therapist Stacy Brill says the animals can give patients a sense of relaxation that a human therapist may not be able to accomplish. "They'll sit and talk to the dog a lot easier than the therapist."

I'm here with Stacy and the "ambassadogs" and I'm told that not only can these dogs lower your stress but, alleviate pain, isn't that right? "Fantastic results from it and people have fallen in love with it."

Almost any domesticated animal from a dog to a fish can provide a soothing feeling that makes patients feel happier overall. Leonard also says, "Just feels very warm to have them here."

And therapists say it's that happiness has more to do with our overall health than anyone realizes.

You don't have to actually own a pet to reap the benefits. Visiting with a pet just a couple of times a week can provide just as many benefits.