Get a pet, improve your health?
by Ryn Gargulinski on Dec. 29, 2007, under Local, Special
A pet can bring good times and good health to the whole family.
Anyone suffering from the winter blues or who has chronic health problems may want to consider getting a pet.
“There are a ton of benefits for people who own pets,” said veterinarian Jim Stofft, who owns Valley Animal Hospital, 4984 E. 22nd St.
He said a pet can bring good times and good health to the whole family.
Specifically, owning a pet can lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels and feelings of loneliness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Likewise, the CDC reports, having a furry friend can increase the amount owners exercise and spend time outdoors, and improve their socialization.
The Delta Society, an agency that has spent 30 years examining the human-animal bond, has conducted numerous scientific studies that show pets offer a slew of health benefits.
The society has examined everything from animals’ positive impact on general well-being to how pets improve life for those with AIDS.
Several Tucson organizations incorporate dogs in various initiatives.
The Pet Visitation Program at the Humane Society of Southern Arizona brings cuddly canines to more than 80 facilities each month, the society said.
Tucson financial adviser Ann Nelson – whose Shih Tzu, Victoria, went through Pet V.I.P. training – knows firsthand how much a visit from her dog helps patients at HealthSouth Rehabilitation Institute, 2650 N. Wyatt Drive.
Especially when Victoria dons a dashing Santa dress for the holidays.
“I look at the joy, the love she brings,” Nelson said. “Victoria gives a lot, to more people than just me.”‘
HealthSouth CEO Jeff Christensen agreed.
When a therapy dog trots in, “the patients and the staff really brighten right up,” he said, adding the dogs are especially beneficial to patients who miss their own pets at home.
The Pima County Public Library offers a “Read to a Dog” program with canines visiting various branches so kids can improve their reading skills with an easygoing audience.
Pets also help children improve other skills.
“It’s a way to make kids think of something outside themselves,” Stofft said. His four dogs have helped his two children learn plenty of lessons.
“Responsibility, compassion, empathy,” he said. “As the kids get older, the pets become some of their best friends.”
Nelson said a pet is a treat that never grows old.
“What happens is, you get a dog – and you get overwhelming, unconditional love on a daily basis.”
