Be Well
“Pets can actually help even if you have started to show evidence of heart problems. In an intriguing study published in the American Journal of Cardiology, researchers followed more than 400 patients after they were released from the hospital after having a heart attack. One year later the pet owners had a significantly higher survival rate than non-pet owners. Their guess is that the affectionate bond and social support provided by their dogs was reducing their stress, and stress is a major contributor to cardiovascular problems.”
– Psychology Today, June 7, 2009
Can our pets – and in this case I will refer to dogs – really make a difference in our physical and mental health and well-being? I will refer you to the quote above to reflect both the professional opinion stated and my own opinion which is definitely “YES!” Pet ownership is, obviously, a personal decision and while I am addressing dog ownership I believe that the benefits can be traced as well to owners of cats, horses, birds, and other furry creatures and even reptiles and fish!
Of course we are familiar with the important work of service dogs and their assistance to those who suffer from disabilities including blindness, hearing loss, difficulty performing daily physical activities and effects of PTSD and other emotional issues. A national program, “Pets for Vets” is utilized by humane associations and veterans groups to provide both physical and emotional support for those who are suffering from military service-related issues. When you have the flu, or even just a cold, who wants to cuddle you and make you feel better … that’s right, your furry friend who doesn’t care if your hair is combed or if you are wearing that old bathrobe again!
Noting the quote above which identifies heart ailments, there have been cases as well of dogs who can, through their acute sense of smell, detect cancers and other tumors. If you are a dog owner with a close bond to your pet, you may have noticed that he or she is very in tune with your physical and emotional well-being. Being a pet owner is a serious responsibility, one which can bring happiness, security, and unconditional love to both you and your pet. That is not to say that you will never be irritated with your furry friend but, hey, just like family dynamics in any household!
The day will also arrive that we, as loving pet owners, always fear. We love them dearly but must be prepared to let them go with dignity. Their physical being is not made to reach our longevity unfortunately. Some of you readers may recall that my dear Sweetie was kind enough to write a few of my articles for me when I was “on vacation” and her topics always centered on health tips for “senior” dogs, of which she was one. Sweetie left us about 18 months ago, but a special and strong spirit kept her here for 16 ½ years, a good run. She was rescued from a very abusive situation at five years old and became a part of our family. To read more about Sweetie’s experience you can order “Sweetie’s Scars: A Journey of Hurt, Hope, and Healing” from Amazon. All royalties are donated to the Humane Society for Hamilton County to address medical needs for potential adoptee dogs and cats there.
There are “other Sweeties” out there just waiting for loving, secure homes to spend their lives making their human family happy. Whether you are drawn to dogs, cats, or any animal (not wildlife!) that would fit into your home life and for whom you can provide the proper care, please consider rescue and adoption of one of these worthy creatures.
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.