I admit to not being an avid pet lover, unlike my husband and kids; however, over the years I have softened tremendously adding a new member to our family. Her name is Sadie, a little 20-pound Shiatsu with a Diva attitude, and I have to tell you that in my house the sun rises and sets on her. Early on when my kids were younger they would often ask if they could have a pet, and I would immediately give them 10 reasons why they weren’t ready for the responsibility. Truth is, the idea of another living being taking up space, time, and food seemed overwhelming to me, not to mention picking up the undesired leftover’s from a long walk. Let’s not even mention the gifts left in the house on PMS days. Needless to say, I gave in and we adopted our daughter Sadie three years ago, who at the time was 2 years old.
After a few weeks of being pet owners, I began to notice a significant change in my family, especially my husband who, prior to Sadie, seemed to be in a bit of a holiday slump from missing loved ones no longer here. I immediately began to notice more laughter in the house, more family gatherings, and, most importantly, a delightful smile on my husband’s face. Each day as he entered the door ,he would ask “How’s my girl? How’s my princess?” and he wasn’t referring to me. Sadie would respond in kind cooing, while giving off a low affectionate growl, and he would roll around on the floor playing for what seemed like hours. Mind you, up until Sadie, I hadn’t seen him get on the floor in 20 years other than to look for a sock under the bed. It was as if he had rediscovered his youth. His mood was better, his patience improved, he was calmer, and, most of all, he and the kids were happier. I admit that I myself was even in a better mood. She couldn’t be a more perfect fit for our family.
All said, pets can be a huge advantage to bettering your health and adding years to your life. Below are some of the top reasons how pets can contribute to your health:
1. As my husband frequently points out, “Pets are loyal, quiet, and they don’t talk back." They give a tremendous sense of calm, which can alleviate stress and decrease blood pressure.
2. Pets can also stave off depression. Knowing you have something that depends on you for love and support can get you up and moving, even on days when you feel less than stellar. This increase in mood decreases cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.
3. According to WebMD, research suggests that those who own pets have lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.
4. Unconditional love from your pet gives you a greater sense of well-being
5. Pets promote walking, leading to a more active lifestyle.
6. Pets promote socialization with other people, keeping you engaged.
7. Working with pets can assist kids with ADHD by helping them burn off excess energy and by helping them learn how to keep to a schedule by caring for a pet
8. Therapeutic dogs have been known to aid individuals in recovery and illness.
9. Some dogs have been trained to detect seizures working with individuals with epilepsy, others have been known to detect drops in blood sugar in diabetic persons.
10. Bottom line: Dogs can enhance your quality of life.
If you’re looking to add a furry friend to your home for companionship, health reasons, or just want to spoil your pet check, out the links below:
• The Humane Society of Missouri
• Treats Unleashed: A dog’s heaven with treats, food, toys and more
• Krazy for Pets: More goodies and pet apparel
