(Most studies that looked at the effects of pets on health have involved either cats or dogs.)A possible link, not a causeandeffectNote, however, that the experts say there is only an association between having a pet and a lower risk of heart disease. Almost all the studies that have investigated pet ownership and heart health are observational ones, which are not designed to prove causeandeffect. Observational studies can show only a correlation between two things.It's very possible that people who choose to bring pets into their homes are in better overall health to start with than their nonpetowning peers.I'm also curious to see if the Oakland Raiders can approach respectability after finally showing some signs of life in the front office, drafting wisely and cutting ties with JaMarcus "'Tussin" Russell. I'm not much into the prediction business (actually, that's an outright lie), but I will go as far as to pick the Raiders as my dark horse AFC sleeper for a postseason