The Power of Pets

I noticed that San Diego is having an interesting expo in April called Successful Aging Expo.  It takes place on Saturday, April 30, at the Town and Country Hotel in Mission Valley.  They will have all kinds of booths, giving seniors tips on health, finance, housing and much more.  It got me thinking about my own life as a senior, and what I can do to improve my life.  One thing I know for sure, my dog Pepper adds to my life in so many ways.

The evidence is mounting, that animals are important to human health.  65% of American households have a pet, and many swear their relationship with their animals makes them happier and healthier.  The scientific evidence backs up this up.  A National Institutes of Health sturdy of 421 adults who'd suffered heart attacks found that dog owners were significantly more likely to be alive a year later, regardless of the severity of their heart attack.  The American Heart Association states that pet ownership, particularly dog ownership, decreases cardiovascular disease risk.  Two NIH funded studies found that dog owners who regularly walked their dogs were less likely to be obese than those who didn't have a dog.  This was particularly true for seniors.  We all know the valuable role therapy dogs play today.  Stroke victims who haven't talked in months have talked when a dog cuddles up to them, and having a dog next to you brings down heart rate and blood pressure.

I know that many of you non pet owners are saying to yourself, "It's just too much trouble.  It's going to tie me down."  The fact that it is some work to own a pet is exactly the point.  It gives you a reason to get up in the morning.  Fido has to be fed.  It gives you a reason to take a walk.  Fido needs a walk.  It also gives you social interaction with others while walking or at the dog park.  Everyone wants to stop and pet Fido when you're out for a walk.  Finally, your Fido will give you unconditional love like you've never known, and you will look forward to returning home each day and seeing his funny face and wagging tail there to greet you.  But what about travel, you say?  Pet walkers and sitters are everywhere, and vary in price from $20-$50 per day (very reasonable I think).  Pet walkers usually get $10 for a 30 minute walk.  This is a small price to pay to have your best friend taken care of when you're not available.  Think of all the money you're saving by having the dog.  You're less likely to get high blood pressure or cardio vascular disease, which will cost a lot more than a pet sitter.  Finally, except for a full body massage, having a pet curled up next to you is the best stress reducer I know of.