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Did you know that your ever faithful dog or cat is more than j
ust your life companion?
No? Well they are, and a lot more. They are your personal trainer, doctor, psychologist and your life coach, to list a just few of their talents, often called upon by you through out your time together.
People tend to connect with animals in deep, profound ways that positively affect their minds, bodies and souls. This connection dates back to early history, but it wasn’t until recently that a correlation was acknowledged between this bond and the emotional health of humans. Studies have shown that letting a pet into your life and holding or petting an animal will cause a lowering of blood pressure, the release of strain and tension, and can draw out a person from loneliness and depression.
Part of a pet’s appeal is that they are nonjudgmental. They only want affection, and couldn’t care less about your age, looks, personality or physical limitations. Unconditional love is a beautiful thing! That is why dogs, in particular, are being used in mental health and nursing home settings. Some elderly care facilities encourage pet ownership as furry felines and canine companions can affect human well being in several ways, including:
• Increase relaxation and decrease anxiety, which can be particularly important in today’s stressful environment.
• Scientific studies show that simply being in the presence of a dog or cat, or petting an animal can reduce blood pressure.
• Animals act as silent therapists. Many psychiatrists and psychologists use animals in therapy sessions to help patients feel comfortable and relaxed.
• Animals facilitate social interactions by providing
human companions with a common topic of interest, I even know of an aged care facility that rescued a handicapped golden lab who uses a dog wheelchair to visit the residents who spoil Jack rotten .
As well for your physical health, dogs make great personal health coaches. Your dog is always eager to celebrate life, and there is no one they would rather do it with than you. So next time your dog bugs you for a walk around the block or a jog through the woods, give in to their pleas and share some of those grass burns with your neighbors lawns. It will be great exercise for both of you. Even a game of fetch, tug-of-war or frisbee is a great way to have fun. Playing healthy games with your dog will help improve your fitness.
So in all, having a pet in your life is a win win combination as they will repay you many times over the love and affection that you give and share with them . now I’m going to spend some time with bailey who has been bugging me for the last 10 minutes to go out and play with him in the snow.
wow is this all true my Mikki and I have shared love for 14 years and in the past few days he has lost control of his back legs he is being stablished and when that takes place with a nerve disorder call old dog syndrom I will bring him home to our home and help him to walk again you just gave new hope to Mikki and I and being that you are in Vancover it will be great because we can have a friend pick it up or send it direct. Thanks so much and maybe kick in a prayer for Mikki that he can come home and find new adventure and hope in walking in the park again …thanks Sandee and Mikki
I have long felt that companion animals (also known as Emotional Support Animals) should be given the credit that they deserve. Thank you for the well written (and researched) article.