Cristy Sartwell has worked as a professional photographer for last five years, shooting bridal portraits, high school photo sessions and engagement announcements. But recently, she got an unusual request from her 19-year-old daughter, Kennedy Sartwell.

Cats are curious creatures that love to run, climb, hunt, and play. Providing entertainment and activities for your cat keeps them healthier and helps reduce unwanted behavior.

Scientists are now digging up evidence that animals can also help improve mental health, even for people with challenging disorders. Though the studies are small, the benefits are impressive enough that clinical settings are opening their doors to animal-assisted interventions--pet therapy, in other words--used alongside conventional medicine.

Most of us know it is not safe to feed a dog chocolate, but what about cats?

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Tyler Matakevich was definitely not intending to adopt a dog.

Then a small, black rescue puppy named Jerrica was placed into his big, football player arms.