A Little Animal Therapy

My dogs and I playing in the snow!

As I, like so many of you, am packing up life into the back of my car and heading back to college I have to say goodbye to my pets. My dog has, over the years, become my best friend. Regardless, saying goodbye to him is always difficult. I read an article in the last week which I would like to share with all of you. The article suggested that pets are beneficial to your health.

In this article, it was suggested that animals such as dogs and cats, could help to improve your immune system. This information was based off of a study, which “analyzed the blood of babies immediately after birth and one year later. He [James E. Gern, the doctor who performed the study] was looking for evidence of an allergic reaction, immunity changes, and for reactions to bacteria in the environment.” However, he found that if “If a dog lived in the home, infants were less likely to show evidence of pet allergies. They also were less likely to have eczema, a common allergy skin condition that causes red patches and itching. In addition, they had higher levels of some immune system chemicals — a sign of stronger immune system activation”

This article also suggested therapeutic reasons for pets. It has been found that people with diseases such as Alzheimer’s or dementia show progressive results after animal visitations. These results can range from improved eating, sleeping, reduced agitation and increased mobility. There are scores of stories of patients with such diseases and their animal aids.

Besides these interesting findings, I have some theories of my own as to how pet owners’ health may benefit. Here are three:

1. Animals keep you active and moving around, no matter what your age. They are the perfect ‘excuse’ to get outside and get in some exercise.
2. Pets always provide company. Whether you are stressed or just having a bad day, the company of pets always seems to make you feel a little better.
3. I believe that pets help to improve your sleep. This can be argued when they are young, and yippy; but I believe that in the long run, they do. Pets tend to spend more hours snoozing, and I know personally that when my dog lies down for the night, he usually influences me to do the same. Whether he’s taking over my bed, or lying by the fire, he always gets in his hours of shuteye.

Until next time, keep on loving those furry friends!