The healing power of animals: people with pets have reduced levels of stress, depression, and heart risk.

     Last week was a very sad and depressing week for myself. There was a death in the family that absolutely shook my world, again. Someone very close to me passed away and I haven't been the same since. I have been feeling slightly depressed and an overwhelming sense of stress ( especially now that I'm working while going to school full time). Everyone always says that it is "family" thatt gets you through the tough times. I completely agree with that statement, my family has never been stronger since last week. For me though, there has been something else (besides my family) that has helped me get through these tough few days and make them seem just a bit britter.
    
     Three weeks ago, I adopted a puppy from the humane society in a county just outside of Philadelphia. His name is Mr. Chase Mutley ( my obsession for the Phillies has never been more evident). These past weeks have been nothing but a joy with him. For being a 10 month old stray from a shelter, I couldn't be anymore happy with him. He has a terrific personality and nothing but love for everyone who interacts with him. Since I adopted Chase, it is amazing how much his companionship has had an affect on my health. I find myself alot less stressed after our long walks in the morning. After playing with him all after noon in the park, it is impossible to feel anything else but joy. Taking care of Mutley has really helped me to take my mind off of things. So this made me wonder: "Can caring for a pet have any positive effects on one's overall health?"

     According to a website affilliated with cbs.com, "researchers have discovered that owning a pet can reduce blood pressure, heart rate, and cholesterol; lower triglyceride levels; lessen stress; result in fewer doctor visits; and alleviate depression. Infants who live in a household with dogs are less likely to develop allergies later in life, not only to animals but also to other common allergens". It further goes on to mention that animals "bring out our nurturing and protective natures and make us feel more responsible. We are touched not only by the companionship and cuddle factors, but by the unwavering loyalty and lack of guile". I think it is this sense of responsibility and unconditional love that makes our pets have that positive effect on our health. I know that getting Chase was the best thing for me at this time. He has given me just as much as I have given him. I know it has only been three weeks, but already I can feel the benefits of adopting him. It may sound silly, but he really gives me something to looks forward to each and every day. I have been more active with him around (not only going on a ton of walks a day, but I find my self at the gym more and more now). I dont sleep as much now, because all I want to do is be around the little guy.

     For me, getting a puppy was the best thing I ever did. I always wanted a puppy, but until this year I never really had the time to care for one. As a college student, life is completely crazy. It's hard enough to find time to sit down for dinner, let alone care for a puppy. You don't however have to actually adopt a puppy to reap the health benefits of having a pet. "Here are ways to find that connection, at least occasionally":




* Volunteer at a humane society or rescue organization. Walk the dogs, or cuddle the cats, bunnies, and guinea pigs. You can also be a foster parent to a pet for a limited period.



* Set up a birdfeeder outside your window. "It's a wonderful way of having animals around you and sensing their autonomy".


* Get out in nature by walking, hiking, camping, or just sitting in your yard. "Listen to the sounds of birds and animals as though it was a language your body understands, because on an ancient and visceral level, it does," says Chernak McElroy.



* Take an animal vacation where you can have supervised close encounters. For more on swimming with dolphins and other Dolphin Research Center programs, go to dolphins.org. To learn about horses, visit therapyhorsesandhealing.com.



* Be an appreciative spectator. Go to a horse show, for example. "The sheer beauty of these incredible creatures that are so full of energy and strength and passion can take us out of our own egos," says McCormick.


     I reccommend that you atleast try one (if not all) of these suggestions this semester. I personally gaurantee you that that you will feel so much lessed stressed and so much more in a better mood. It can't hurt to try something new, people!

-Ryan


For the full 5 page article on "The healing power of animals: people with pets have reduced levels of stress, depression, and heart risk. Find happiness and well-being through this primal connection" please visit the Natural Health section of:

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