PALESTINE — It seems that pets affect just about every aspect of our lives. Studies show that pet owners have lower blood pressure and triglyceride and cholesterol levels than non-pet owners do. They also have fewer minor health issues and even make fewer trips to the doctor. On an emotional level, pet owners have better psychological well being and feel less lonely and isolated than non-pet owners. In fact, for seniors and children, pets can fulfill many of the same support roles as people.
Consider the benefits children receive from their interactions and bond with animals:
• Higher self-esteem
• Enhances cognitive development
• Increased happiness
• Decreased stress levels
• Development of better social skills
• Lowered frequency of allergic rhinitis and asthma
• Improved ability to cope with change, loss, and grief
The human-animal bond is certainly worth the time and effort it takes to develop, as it can result in one of the strongest relationships we encounter. Research studies continue to confirm what pet owners have known all along. Whether they are furry, feathered, or scaly, pets enrich our lives in ways that science is only now realizing. For many pet owners, it truely is a bond for life.
Information provided by Morton Small Animal Clinic, 1404 East Tyler Hwy., Athens, 903-675-5708 or 903-681-2636 after hours.
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Here is a list of this week’s featured pets at BARC, The Humane Society:
• Mollie — 1-year-old female collie mix
• Tub-Tub — male terrier puppy
• Baby — 3-1/2-year-old female Jack Russell terrier
These and other animals are ready for adoption at BARC, The Humane Society, 335 Armory Rd., Palestine. You may visit them online at www.achs.petfinder.com and www.barctx.org. Telephone 903-729-8074 for information.
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Studies show pets can improve quality of life
<i>Pet Talk</i> column
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