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The act of caring for animals (walking dogs, feeding horses,


etc.) actually improves one’s physical fitness. Taking walks, lifting and carry supplies, or even cleaning up after your animal requires muscle strength and dexterity. The act of doing this on a daily basis can improve bone and joint health as well! The activity levels associated with pet ownership also have


a positive impact on a person’s blood pressure and cholesterol (triglyceride) levels. Just think, the next time your dog sits by the door for a walk he isn’t the only one benefiting from this act. The Pets for the Elderly Foundation provides further


statistics on its website about the health benefits of pet ownership. When compared to those without pets, pet owners had 21 percent fewer visits to the doctor, were less likely to die from heart attacks, and even suffer fewer headaches. Pet owners who underwent surgery also had significantly shorter recovery times. There is also a social aspect in which pet ownership is


extremely beneficial. Loneliness is one of the most difficult conditions older populations face and this seems to be drastically reduced by having a companion pet. The comfort, affection, and sense of security associated with pets allows us to cope more effectively through the loss of loved ones. Not only do pet owners have increased feelings of personal security and purpose, they are also less likely to experience depression. Pets can be an integral part of a person’s social network.


Most pet owners will admit that they often talk to their furry friends, and that petting their animals remarkably improves the owners’ moods. Pet owners also expressed that they had reduced feelings of isolation. Talk therapy is a useful tool for many mood disorders. Imagine how often pet owners have the opportunity to participate in this type of therapy with their non-judgmental, accepting fluffy companion. The discourse between owner and pet is not the only


way in which pets help their owners socially. Dog owners may, at the urging of their pet, take more walks around their neighborhoods than they would otherwise. On these walks, they may interact with other dog walkers, building casual, yet consistent relationships. They may also find that they stop and talk to neighbors in their yards that they may not otherwise talk to. A friendly dog tends to provide the easiest of introductions. How many Hollywood movies start with a guy’s dog running up to his future wife? Horse owners often flock together to provide safety


and companionship for trail rides. There are even online communities where horse enthusiasts build friendships through the sharing of tips and tricks in caring for their trusty steeds, learning about illnesses, or even purchasing new equipment. For horse people looking for face to face contact, there are even local senior riding groups with monthly meetings. While animals such as cats may not provide the physical


fitness advantages that are common in dog and horse owners, their owners also benefit from living in their midst with reduced anxiety and stabilized hormone levels. Think of how high oxytocin levels rise when watching YouTube videos of “cats and cucumbers” and imagine the joy of living with that day to day. (If you haven’t had a chance, please take the time to search cats and cucumber videos.)


The House & Home Magazine 65


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