Pets Are Good For You - Veterinarians Agree!

As anyone who has ever loved a companion animal can tell you, pets make people feel good, they make you say silly things that can't even be translated into any particular language, "oh my little smooshie wooshkie," they make you smile when they do something innocent. In the past, there was no scientific evidence to back up the fact that pets are good for our health. But now there is. Studies done in the last decade have proven that owning pets can be beneficial to human health in many ways, besides the obvious.

As The Center for Disease Control's website states, owning pets can lower a person's blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as provide opportunities for exercise, outdoor activities and socialization.

There are other benefits as well. A 2002 study released by the American Medical Association stated that children raised from birth in multiple pet households may be less likely to develop allergic illnesses, such as asthma, allergies and eczema. Apparently, being exposed to the "germs" of dogs and cats early in life helps build the immune system, making it stronger and more resilient.

A foundation called the Delta Society focuses exclusively on harnessing the power of the human-animal health connection. Their mission is to unite Americans with mental and physical illnesses and disabilities with trained therapy animals. A comprehensive collection of studies related to the health benefits of pet ownership can be found on their website ( http://www.deltasociety.org ). These studies show that pets have helped people cope with a myriad of issues, from trauma to attachment disorders to autism. Our furry friends have more of an impact on the human species than we might think!

Although veterinarians have probably always intuitively known that animals do people a lot of good, The American Veterinary Medical Association now recognizes the importance of the human-animal bond, and has issued a statement supporting the health benefits of animal companionship for people.

So, pet owners take this to heart - the next time you wince at Rover's vet bill or plop down a $50 bill for that amazing kitty condo, look at it not only as a sign that you are a responsible and loving pet owner, but also as insurance for your future health. Love is reciprocal - love your pets just as much as you love yourself and the people around you. But most devoted pet owners already know and feel like little "Tiger" is part of the family already.

Corner Animal Hospital - Pet Pharmacy & Long Island Veterinary Service

Buy the medications your pet needs with confidence at the Corner Animal Hospital's Online Pet Pharmacy. Owned by Ivy League Educated Dr. Dorothy Hayes and Dr. Judith Lombardi Daniels. "We treat your pets as family members. Their health and comfort are our primary concern."

Submitted by Christine at NewSunSEO Inc.