Paws for Thought

In 1860, Florence Nightingale commented on the positive impact of small animals on those with chronic illness. Over 100 years later, the health benefits of interacting with animals have been well documented. Surprsingly, it does not matter what type of pet you get - it could be a dog, cat, parakeet, or fish. The only thing that matters is that the pet is of interest to you.

Pets provide unconditional, non-judgemental love and affection. We are fulfilling one of our most primitive and basic needs when petting an animal: the need for touch. Pets don't have mood swings or melt downs. They don't talk back, and even if we're having a bad day, they love us unconditionally. In a world that is competitive and critical and where people are always trying to change us, pets love us just the way we are!

Pets can decrease our blood pressure, muscle tension, anxiety, and depression. For those of us who have chronic pain, the effects may be even larger. The presence of a dog prompts that daily walk that we might not take otherwise. Pets can offer structure to a hectic life.

The effects don't just apply to those who have pets, either. You can reap the benefits of animals even if you don't have one. Next time you see one of the neighborhood dogs on a walk, ask if you can pet him or her, or even bring treats. Taking care of a neighbor or friend's pets while they are out of town is another way to bring pets into your life without the commitment. You could also volunteer to walk dogs or pet cats at your local human society.

The bottom line is that pets, whether it is a fish, puppy, kitty, or bird, have positive effects on us, both emotionally and physically. Do you have pets in your lives? What benefits have you experienced?