Surprising
Health Benefits for Pet Owners
By Patricia Wagner
Did
you know that there are key health benefits that can result from owning a pet?
Having one can enhance your physical, mental and social wellbeing.
1.
How can a pet help your physical health?
Owning
a dog, for instance, will encourage you to get more exercise. With your
faithful friend at your side, you're much more likely to go for a walk. Walking
is one of the best health activities you can do. While walking you're also more
likely to socially interact with your neighbors because your special pal often
acts as an ice-breaker.
Research
led by Dr. Karen Allen at the State University of New York at
In
his studies Alan Beck, ScD (Professor of Animal Ecology,
An
added health advantage from pet ownership is that patients may live longer
after heart attacks. Some doctors recommend that a heart attack survivor adopt
a dog because research has shown that a faithful canine companion can help
prolong an owner's life.
2.
How Can A Pet Improve Your Mental Health?
Sharing
your life with a cat may help your mental health. A study conducted at
Pets
can help their owners overcome depression through their companionship and
unconditional love. They seem to possess the natural ability to help you relax
and enjoy life more.
Pets
can also help when you experience times of loneliness. English poet, Alexander
Pope, has stated that histories are more full of
examples of the fidelity of dogs than of friends. According to a Chinese
proverb, dogs have so many friends because they wag their tails, not their
tongues.
When
you take care of a pet you have to develop a routine of getting out, buying
food and providing exercise. This can help fight off depression and loneliness.
The simple responsibility of pet care can help you get your mind off yourself
and your problems.
3.
How can a pet enhance your wellbeing in the area of relationships?
American
Animal Hospital Association President, Link Wellborn, believes that pets are
more than just a member of the family - they're central to a healthy lifestyle.
Pets
help lessen tension between family members and add a lot of fun and
unconditional love to the homes where they live. When pets do cute and funny
things - which they often do - family members react by laughing and being more
relaxed.
If
you don't have a pet yet, consider making one part of your family, but make
sure you have the time and resources necessary to provide a stable loving home
for your new friend.
If
you choose a dog as your new pal, remember this wise old saying. "A dog is
man's best friend." That's true in more ways than one. You'll get
unconditional love, companionship, loyalty and relaxation in return for your
investment of time and material resources.
What
a bargain!
|
About
The Author Patricia
Wagner offers informative tips and a free newsletter to help you live a more
energetic lifestyle. Check out
http://www.a-to-z-wellness.com. She is also an artist and you
can view her original paintings at
http://www.artbywagner.com. |
Author Index
Words of Wisdom
NuPathz Home
NuPathz.com – Your affordable source for self improvement and
self help books & materials
Illuminating the path for personal motivation, growth
and development
SUCCESS = TAKING THE STEPS TO DO THE
THINGS YOU WANT TO DO!