When you’ve had a rough day at work and the horrific traffic jam on I-95 has , in the words of Clint Eastwood, “made your day”, who is there at home to greet you and make you feel better? Your dog or cat of course! Your faithful pet is always excited to see you. He doesn’t nag at you (except for his dinner, or to go out) and he’s always happy that you’re who you are. You’re just perfect in his eyes. Research has shown that by just stroking your pet’s fur you’ll decrease your blood pressure and slow your heart rate too. You’ll feel calmer and be less likely to be depressed. Petting your dog causes your body to release a large amount of feel-good type hormones like oxytocin, prolactin, and serotonin. It also decreases your bad hormone – cortisol. Renowned veterinarian, Dr. Marty Becker, co author of “Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover’s Soul”, says “dog’s are like furry hot water bottles – they make you feel warm and fuzzy all over.”
Pets are also being recognized for their roles in home therapy centers, hospitals, and retirement homes. Elderly people who are able to keep pets with them show a greater interest in life, are less lonely, and therefore live longer. Therapy pets who visit patients in hospitals help to reduce the patient’s anxiety and stress. Recently one of my clients who is a pilot told me a story about a young blind boy who was being flown to Miami for treatment. You can imagine how scary this kind of trip would be for a child. What made this experience a little easier was the pilot’s dog, who always accompanies his master on these flights. The spaniel settled himself beside the boy, who pet and cuddled with the dog the whole way. An elderly dog may not be conventional medical therapy, but in this case it made a huge difference.
So cuddle, nuzzle and love on your pet so you can live longer, happier, and healthier.
