MyAlphaDawg

(contd from myalphadawg.com newsletter..)

 

In addition, of the respondents:

  • 76 percent stated their stress levels are reduced by their companion animals
  • 65 percent indicated their mental health is improved by their pets
  • 31 percent stated their physical fitness has been improved by their providing of exercise for their companion animals

A survey undertaken by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) in 2000 yielded results very similar to those obtained by the AAHA.

 

Eighty-eight percent of the senior citizens who responded to the APPMA survey indicated that "pets make their family or home life healthier, either emotionally or physically." In addition, 79 percent of all of the respondents stated they believe "pets help to create a healthier balance...with the increasing presence of technology" in homes.

"People feel that having a pet - a real being to care for and be with - helps balance the cold influence technology can have on a home," according to APPMA Communications Director Funda Alp.

"Pets are...more than just a member of the family - they are central to a healthy lifestyle," according to AAHA President Link Wellborn.

I couldn't agree more. END

 

 

(contd from myalphadawg.com newsletter article 2)

......dog had lower blood pressure readings in stressful situations than did those who did not own a pet. (Dr. Karen Allen, State University of New York at Buffalo)

 

  •  

    Pets Help to Reduce Stress. Walking with a pet helps to sooth nerves and offers instant relaxation. Studies conducted worldwide have shown that the impact of a stressful situation is lesser on pet owners, especially males, than on those who do not own a pet. (Josephine M. Wills, Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition, United Kingdom)

  • Pets Help to Prevent Heart Disease. Because pets provide people with faithful companionship, research shows they may also provide their owners with greater psychological stability, thus a measure of protection from heart disease. (National Institute of Health Technology Assessment Workshop: Health Benefits of Pets)

  • Pets Help to Lower Health Care Costs.

  • People with pets actually make fewer doctor visits, especially for non-serious medical conditions. (National Institute of Health Technology Assessment Workshop: Health Benefits of Pets)

  • Pets Help to Fight Depression. Pets help fight depression and loneliness, promoting an interest in life. When seniors face adversity or trauma, affection from pets takes on great meaning.

  • Their bonding behavior can foster a sense of security. (Between Pets and People: The Importance of Animal Companionship) END