Pooches are becoming part of some patients' healing plans.

Scientists are just starting to unlock the magnificent ways that pets can help improve human health. And while the science isn't there yet to confirm that pets can help people dealing with cancer, research projects are in the works.

Looking at people with other types of diseases, researchers have been able to prove that having a pet can help increase survival, reduce pain, stress, and anxiety, and boost physical activity—all things that could improve the well-being of people being treated for cancer, too.

Cancer treatment knocks down a person's immune defense system, however, so taking certain precautions to avoid infection is a good idea, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

An article in Cure magazine outlines CDC advice for integrating a pet or pet visits into cancer treatment:

1. Avoid getting a pet younger than 6 months old, and make sure it gets a complete checkup before bringing it home.

2. Don't touch an animal with diarrhea.

3. With cats, ask someone else to change the litter box.

4. Trim a pet's nails to avoid scratches.

5. Clean any scratches from animals immediately with soap and water.

6. Always wash hands with soap and water after playing with a pet.

Soon, we'll have more concrete evidence on how pets affect the well-being of cancer patients. A study investigating the effects of dog visits on young adults with cancer is currently under way, and a study looking at children who receive regular visits from dogs is in its planning stages.

Whether you're facing an illness or not, pets provide measurable benefits to their owners. Studies published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology last summer found that pet owners experienced greater self-esteem and higher fitness levels. They were also more social and independent, and less likely to experience loneliness and fear.

If you're looking for a pet, check out PetFinder.com and consider supporting your local animal shelter or rescue or fostering organization.