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This years National Pet Week theme is, “Pets Make the Difference.” Over the years, National Pet Week has enlightened the public about the importance of responsible pet ownership and the vital role of veterinarians in the human-animal bond.

For many people, pets are an important source of love and friendship. It is also a well-know fact that pets are good for our health. It’s obvious that we benefit from taking regular exercise when walking a dog. However, it is not commonly known that over the last thirty years, there has been increasing scientific evidence that pets can help to keep us fit and well – pets can even help speed up recovery after major illness.

            A study at Cambridge University found that owning a pet produced improvements in general health in as little as one month. Pet owners were found to suffer fewer ailments, such as headaches, colds, and hayfever.

            Stroking a pet or simply watching a fish in an aquarium helps us to relax. The presence of a pet nearby seems to have the same effect, reducing heart beat rate and lowering blood pressure. Research has shown that this effect is particularly marked in people suffering from high blood pressure (hypertension). The reduction in blood pressure is equivalent to that gained by eating a low salt diet or cutting down on alcohol consumption.

            One study showed that keeping a pet significantly reduced levels of cholesterol and blood triglyceride. This fact, combined with the reduction in blood pressure from being with a pet, may make pet owners less prone to heart attacks than non-pet owners.

 

Some additional facts about pets:

• Children who own pets are often less self centered than those who do not
• Psychiatrically ill people were happier as a result of looking after a pet.
• Pets provide companionship and promote a general feeling of well being
• Pets lessen feelings of isolation and loneliness in elderly people
• Owning a pet can teach a child responsibilities of life and mutual trust

As well as many other benefits, pets provide us with loyalty, companionship, and affection. 

 

References:

The Pet Health Council

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If you missed the Open House celebration in March, we still want you to know that we always extend an open invitation to tour our (and your) pet hospital.  Just call for a convenient time and one of our staff will be happy to show you around.  Touring times may be limited due to surgery & staff schedules, so please call in advance. Or next time you are here for an appointment, just ask to take a look around. We welcome you in!

 

Open House Gallery Photos can be seen here as well as many others on our website, www.alohavet.com .  From the website, they can be viewed in larger format and downloaded as well.

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