A survey conducted by Purina [1] of 1,600 Americans showed that having a pet can, in fact, enhance a romantic relationship. Key findings from the survey include:

• 54 percent of people have found their pet to be an instant conversation starter with someone they are interested in.
• 63 percent of people are likely to date someone who has a pet.
• Nearly six out of 10 surveyed say that they are likely to consider a person with a dog more attractive.
• 33 percent of men agree single pet owners have a greater chance of getting a date on Valentine's Day than non-pet owners.

Dr. Zara Boland, Purina veterinarian, explained the results simply: "Not only do pets serve as a great conversation starter, but studies have also shown that pets can help release feel-good hormones in humans, including high levels of oxytocin, also known in some circles as the love hormone."

So this Valentine's Day, make sure you bring up your pet when you're out on the town, hoping to strike up a conversation with someone who could totally be Mr. Right. You never know, your pup could be the key to landing a date!