Animals make people HAPPY
Study points to benefits from having four-legged friends

Are you happy? If you are a pet owner, the answer is probably a resounding "Yes!" Studies have shown that pets offer their owners, pardon the pun, a new leash on life. According to a recent survey commissioned by the Iams Co., most pet owners, up to 89 percent, believe having a four-legged friend makes people happier. Some 82 percent of those surveyed believe pet ownership teaches children responsibility, and 67 percent feel having a dog or a cat can improve a person's health.
Dr. Dan Carey, a veterinarian with Iams Co., agrees that pets offer many benefits, both physical and psychological. "Researchers actually have seen a reduction in blood pressure while a person is petting an animal," Carey said in a recent interview. He added that researchers also see a decrease in the recuperation time of sick patients by giving them something to ease their pain and to look forward to.
Every pet owner knows that a dog or cat can offer companionship, but few realized that a pet can help improve its owner's mind and body. The reason for this is simple. Pets fulfill one of the basic human desires. Pets offer unconditional love and affection. This love can help an owner feel needed and important. Pets provide unfailing friendship and nonjudgmental companionship.
But can our furry friends give us something that our fellow humans sometimes fail to provide? This ability can best be summed up with the acronym HAPPY!
Human quality of life is enhanced: The special bond between a human and a pet leads to many positive rewards socially. Pets can provide security, relief from boredom, monotony and isolation of life in a social setting. It allows people the opportunity to socially interact with other animal lovers.
Active: Research has shown that pet owners exercise more often than non-pet owners. According to a 1993 study published in the Journal of Social Psychology, dog owners reported taking twice as many walks as non-owners. Having an exercise buddy makes it easier to stay committed to an exercise program.
Preventive medicine: Pets can help prevent anything from heart disease to loneliness. The studies have shown that seniors who own dogs make fewer trips to the doctor's office. A 1999 study of hypertensive stockbrokers showed owning a pet helps lower heart rate, blood pressure and reaction to stressful activities or environments.
Pet therapy: Patients in hospitals and nursing homes enjoy the constant source of comfort and attention when animals are present. They also tend to be more receptive to medical treatment and nourishment.
Youth learn responsibility: Additional studies show pets are good for kids. Pets require a great deal of attention, guidance and care. In return for feeding, grooming and exercising their pets, children receive companionship and unconditional love. Children learn to interact with, and take responsibility for, the health and well being of their pets.
While owning a pet has its benefits, it is important to remember that it is not for everyone. Not all people are financially ready or physically capable of caring for a pet. Before taking the big step to future pet ownership, people should truthfully assess their ability to provide the necessary care and basic needs for a pet. Also, take the time to research which kind of animal will best suit their lifestyle and abilities.
With proper care and commitment, you will find that you gain more than a pet. You will win the affection of a lifelong companion. And remember, please spay or neuter your animals
Eamon P. Riley is a professional dog trainer and animal behavioral consultant. For suggestions or comments, he can be emailed at dogmanusmc@aol.com or by calling 689-9483.