Furry Friends and Seniors
Can having a pet really help combat loneliness and reduce the sign of other ailments? All signs and some reports point to an astounding YES! According to a study from The Gerontologist in 1986 seniors were able to combat loneliness with the love from a pet. There are many other positive side effects from pet ownership. Seniors have someone else focus on besides themselves and their ailments.
Choosing the right type of dog is important! Being able to walk the dog without it walking you is a must. We don’t not want any injuries because the dog was to excited or to large to handle. Think Boxer or German short hair pointer, they love to run and chase things smaller than themselves. Walking is one of the best types of physical activity that is available to anyone at anytime. A study from the University of Georgia in 2008 found that walking on a regular basis reduced seniors risk of developing a physical disability by 41%. Having a pet is a living reminder and reason to get you out there moving on a daily basis. Walking improves cardiovascular health, combats the battle of the bulge, and boosts the immune system. Your furry friend will be a constant companion encouraging you to get outside and soak up that vitamin D.
Animals live in the present. They have no concern for the past or the future because their reality is in the moment. They are always happy to see you and loyal to a fault. Especially after the loss of spouse a pet can be the saving grace. We all know that we talk to our pets whether we will admit it or not! I was a massage therapist for fourteen years and it was always interesting to me when I worked on seniors. So many of them were not touched on a regular basis. They have a sensory deficiency in touch. Guess what can help you in that area….a pet! A cat twirling between your legs or a dog licking your hand all qualify as touch. A loving touch reduces stress and calms anxiety.
Our seniors are not the only ones who need the love from a pet. There are thousands of animals that die each year before getting placed with a loving home. Save a life and find your perfect pal at www.petfinder.com. You can make a difference and give a dog or cat a new lease on life.