PETrified
Cats, dogs, fish, birds, lizards, snakes, horses….
If you are a pet owner, it would be very hard to imagine a world devoid of your lovable fur babies. In fact, for many of us, it would create a feeling of emptiness comparable to losing a loved one, a significant other, or a family member. Our animal companions bring joy, meaning, and purpose to our lives. Their impact is such that pet therapy has been incorporated in the medical field as a form of healing through animals.
Studies have shown multiple benefits that come from pet ownership.
#1. It helps improve cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This is associated with the physical activity and exercise that most pet owners get more of, compared to an average person. Engaging in physical activity with our pet also aids in joint movement, improves recovery time, increases motor skills, and motivates one to “move more, stretch farther, and exercise longer”. Taking your dog for a walk or a run at the park prevents you from living a sedentary life that can lead to heart disease. It also promotes socialization and a sense of community that are beneficial to our mental health.
#2. Animal therapy helps with depression and anxiety management.
The very act of petting my cat, for example, produces oxytocin also known as the “love hormone”. Levels of this endorphin increase during cuddling and hugging. That’s the reason why it feels soothing and light to be around the company of our pet buddies.
#3 Research shows that a daily exposure to a fish tank for at least 30 minutes produces a positive effect in improving cognition, increase in appetite and verbal interaction among people who suffer from dementia.
#4 Pet therapy can significantly reduce pain and fatigue in people receiving cancer treatment, residents who live in long term care facilities, people with high levels of anxiety, and veterans suffering from PTSD.
Our pets are more than our companion. They are also our healers.
Be grateful to wake up every morning feeling the soft coat of Kairi, playing fetch with Barkley, watching late night movies with Indy, cooking meals with Ilean, swimming into the deep with Steph & Klay, and traveling in your retirement years with Art.
Be grateful to wake up every morning feeling the soft coat of Kairi, playing fetch with Barkley, watching late night movies with Indy, cooking meals with Ilean, swimming into the deep with Steph & Klay, and traveling in your retirement years with Art.
Your Angels Heart Home Care Team recognizes the important role that pets play in improving the quality of life. They make up our extended family and to some of us, our only family. We incorporate pet care needs into the daily adult care that we provide. Whatever name you call your animal baby, we are here to help because you and your pet matter. Call us @ 888-976-0969 because….
“Life is better with Angels Heart.”
Sources:
https://spots.com/pet-ownership-statistics/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/pet-therapy/art-20046342
