I hope you enjoy reading today’s blog. Perhaps while you do so, you have a loyal furry friend resting comfortably in your lap. In my case, I have a snobbish terrier under my feet who could care less and a large goofy Labrador slobbering on them. Today’s blog discusses the health benefits of having pets.
OUR BUDDIES
John’s and my life would simply not be the same without our two little canine buddies greeting us when we get home. They are always hopeful a morsel will drop off the dinner table, exhibit total euphoria for a post dinner walk and can’t wait to curl up at the foot of our bed after an exhausting day of napping.
TO PET OR NOT TO PET
I realize there are a few of you who couldn’t imagine a life of copious amounts of pet hair, letting critters out periodically throughout the day, feedings and scooping poo. There are vet bills, food cost, training, grooming along with various discipline problems. If you’ve ever been in panic mode about finding a pet sitter, raise your hand. The above mentioned might dissuade you from being a pet owner. However, we can’t imagine life without them.
PETS CAN IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH
Can you feel the love the minute you walk in the door? Research has shown that living with pets provide health benefits. WebMD suggests that pets can help lower blood pressure and lessen anxiety. They boost our immunity. Oddly enough, they say they can even help you single folks get dates. Interesting. Let me know how that works for you.
ALLERGIES?
James E. Gern, MD, a pediatrician at the University of Wisconsin-Madison tells WebMD that a growing number of studies have suggested that kids growing up in a home with furred animals, whether it’s a cat, dog or farm animal will have less risk of allergies and asthma.
SENIOR MOMENTS
Studies have shown that Alzheimer’s patients have fewer anxious outburst if there is an animal available to them says Lynette Hart, PhD. Their caregivers also feel less burdened when there is a pet. Caring for a pet for the elderly who are able can provide exercise and companionship.
CHEER UP!
WebMD has been my source du jour. They say that pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression. The benefit is especially pronounced when people are strongly attached to their pets. In one study, those with high blood pressure had lower reading in stressful situations than did people without pets. Playing with your pet can elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine which are nerve transmitter that are known to have pleasurable and calming properties.
HDD
Yes it’s true. If your pet has health issues, diagnostic ultrasound is an option for them. Consult your vet for further information. Stay tuned. At some point in the near future, HDD is hoping to be able to provide Ultrasound for your furry friends as well! If you need ultrasound, consult us. We can be reached at 505-350-3397.