A New Year begins in a few days, and during this time many people make resolutions for better health. If you’re one of those who resolves steps to better health and if you’d like to not give your doctor as much money in 2017, here’s a simple solution: get a pet!
Did you know having a pet provides health benefits? Maybe not money-wise as far as many those insurance premiums, but certainly benefits in both physical and emotional health.
Various organizations, including the Center for Disease Control and other health groups, echo the physical and emotional health benefits that pets provide people. For example, having a dog increases your chances of getting physical exercise, such as walking, hiking, and stretching (think about when you throw the ball for Fido in a game of fetch).
Many studies show people with pets have lower cholesterol and triglycerides, lower blood pressure, and decreased stress. The simple act of petting a dog or cat helps us relax a bit. Pets can also decrease feelings of loneliness, fear and anxiety. Walking your dog can increase your socialization interactions, and pets in households with Alzheimer’s patients have been known to help those patients reduce their outbursts. People are less likely to suffer from depression if a pet or two resides in the home, and older people with pets enjoy better health both emotionally and physically.
Pets offer people many emotional and physical health benefits. Some animals can even help predict seizures, discover cancers, and alert people to low blood sugar attacks. Dogs and cats have been known to warn their owners of dangers, such as intruders and fire, and many have risked their own lives to protect or rescue their human companions. Pets give us their devotion and companionship, and we reap great benefits from their presence in our lives.
For more information on the emotional and physical benefits of pets, visit the following websites:
The holiday season is upon us. As people hurry and scurry, our pets tend to be neglected and their safety often overlooked. However, as you prepare for Christmas, don’t let your hustle and bustle bring disaster to your pets. Here are some tips to help keep your furry companions safe during this busy time of year:
Follow these simple tips, and you, your family, and your pet will more greatly enjoy the Christmas season!
For many people, pets are family, and when the holiday season rolls around, they purchase Christmas gifts for their furry companions. So, what gifts can you give your furry family members? Here are four ideas:
“Stockings hung by the chimney with care…” Treats, toys, collars, and other items can be slipped into a stocking for Fido and Fluffy just like candy is given to human children. Even wrapped gifts, like sweaters, beds, books, or large rawhide bones, can be found under Christmas trees with the pet’s name on the gift tag. I had a dog more than 20 years ago who loved tearing into his Christmas present under the tree – it was fun to watch him “open” his special gift!
A recent article in Woman's Day provided gift ideas under $50 for the pet in your life. Read the article by clicking on this link: http://www.womansday.com/life/pet-care/g946/pet-gifts/.
Most pet-lovers I know give their furry friends Christmas gifts (some also provide birthday presents and parties for their special fur-balls) -- how about you? Do you give gifts to your animals during the holiday season?
Gayle M. Irwin is a writer and public relations professional who volunteers with various animal rescue groups. She enjoys sharing her books and her passion for pets and the environment with others.