Pets And Your Health

A balanced diet, regular exercise and an animal companion. As strange as this may sound, it's possible that pets can be added to the prescription for a healthy lifestyle.

Numerous studies have been done that examine the correlation between having a pet and being healthy. They looked at everything from blood pressure to recovery from illness to meditation techniques. One study even showed that simply gazing or focusing one's attention on a tropical fish moving about in a fish tank was far more effective in lowering blood pressure than any of the more traditional meditative techniques.

Researchers at the Baker Medical Research Institute in Australia were surprised when their three-year study of 5,741 people showed that pet owners had lower blood pressure, triglyceride and cholesterol levels than non-owners. This result could not be explained by personal differences such as cigarette smoking, diet, weight or socio-economic profile. The link between pet ownership and and a reduced risk of developing heart disease was confirmed by this study and the results will stimulate more research on this link.

Having a pet is not a guarantee against illness, but if you do get sick, chances are you may recover more quickly if you have a pet. A study of Medicaid use in the United States showed the pet owners make fewer visits to their doctor. An examination of the long-term survival of heart patients showed two major factors of influence to survival, which were 1) the extent of damage to the heart and 2) whether or not the patient had a pet. Four times more patients without pets died within the first year of the study, even though they comprised only 42 per cent of the population studied!

If these medical facts haven't convinced you that a pet is a benefit to your physical health, perhaps the mental health aspects will. Pets are entertaining and add consistency and stability to people's lives. These characteristics have been shown to help people work through loneliness and life's rough spots. Pet owners rely on their animal companions unquestioning loyalty, affection and non-judgemental behavior. Some people have even been known to use their pets as 'therapists' and speak to them about their problems.

An animal companion can also encourage sociability, interpersonal communication and activity. It seems that dog owners meet more people than non-owners. A variety of studies have shown that people walking a dog in the park engaged in more social activity than when they walked without the dog. The dog walkers even had longer conversations with other people. The presence of a pet gave them an 'ice-breaker' to begin a conversation.

It is very difficult to neglect your daily walk, jog, bike or rollerblade if you have a brown-eyed, tongue-lolling canine begging to go out with you. Many people have found dogs to be excellent motivators to begin an exercise program, or great companions for a well-established program.

When incorporating a dog into your exercise plan, however, it is important to take the dog's fitness level into consideration. Different breeds of dogs have different activity and stamina levels. As well, individuals will be in various conditions. Ideally, a dog should work gradually into an exercise program - just as you do. Dogs can suffer from muscle strain, too! A good plan is to start slow and build from there. Initially, your dog may only be able to join you for part of your workout. You may also want to consult with your veterinarian about the best plan for your dog.

Logistical considerations for having your dog take part in your exercise regime includes bylaws and equipment. There are some areas in Calgary where dogs aren't allowed, are allowed only on leash, or are allowed off-leash. As well, you aren't allowed to bike on city pathways with your dog on a leash. It is dangerous for you, your dog and others on the path. So scope out your route well to ensure you aren't breaking any laws or putting yourself and others in danger.

When you are filling up your water bottle, don't forget to fill up one for your dog as well. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are enemies of all species! It is best to take your dog out early or late in the day if it's very hot. If you need to bundle up for the weather, does your dog need to? Of course he does. There is protective footwear, warm-wear and rainwear available for dogs, so even questionable weather won't keep you from your daily exercise.

Pets provide us with many health benefits just by being themselves. The unconditional love pets offer lowers our blood pressure and motivates us to stay well and keep active. We can't forget however, that we are still responsible for our animal companions. They rely on us completely for their health and well-being. So, if you're considering getting an animal as part of a healthy lifestyle, keep in mind the commitment is year-round and life-long.