![Best Friends Best Friends](/images/default-source/catholic-health-world/w190615_bestfriends_a-1.jpg?sfvrsn=3e0fcf2_4)
Dr. Frank LaBarbera, an obstetrician and gynecologist affiliated with St. Claire HealthCare in Morehead, Ky., shares a frozen treat with his dog during a PAWS for Behavioral Health gathering on May 11. The event was hosted by St. Claire HealthCare at the Morehead Dog Park as part of Mental Health Awareness Month. Pet owners learned how communing with a pet can reduce loneliness and stress, lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. Dogs and people enjoyed free ice cream while hearing from Morehead Mayor Laura White Brown and other guest speakers. St. Claire HealthCare is a not-for-profit health system sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame — Covington Province.