How Pets Can Be Real
Stress-Busters!
Most of us are familiar with the more common ways of reducing stress – a balanced diet, rich in whole grains, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium and vitamin B, plus exercise to burn off excess fat caused by stress, the pursuit of leisurely activities, and a good support system. But how many of us regard animals as a great antidote to stress?
By Cheryl Patterson
For some of us who already have pets, it may be hard to imagine that owning a pet reduces stress. They are simply part of our daily routine – one of the many items on our never-ending to-do list. But because the rewards of being near a loving animal truly outweigh the sacrifices, pets are widely recommended as antidotes to what ails us, even in the larger scheme of things.
The Humane Society of Canada (HSC) believes the beneficial impact of pets on our health can reduce health care costs and spare the lives of both the elderly and the pets they take in. According to Al Hickey, Western Regional Director, the HSC feels so strongly about this that the organization has issued a report to the government, proposing a tax credit to help the elderly afford pets as a preventative measure to reduce health care costs over the long-term.
According to HSC Executive Director, Michael O’Sullivan, a study indicated that owning a dog or cat contributed to savings of approximately CAD $1.82 billion in health care costs in Australia in 1994-95.
Sullivan believes that such a study would reveal similar results here in Canada. This is why the organization is currently moving in this direction, believing as it does that both seniors and animals could benefit from government support in this area.
Of course, the elderly aren’t the only people who benefit from the proximity of animals. The therapeutic benefits of pet companionship are monumental. In 1975, when a patient brought an injured sparrow into a hospital which cared for severely depressed and withdrawn patients, simple nurturing of the bird generated improvements in well-being and communicativeness.
Fast-forward, and what is known today as the Oakwood Forensic Center runs an animal-assisted therapy program (AAT). This therapy is so profound that clients on this ward require only half the medication of clients on other wards. AAT is a direction many other facilities are trying to take, with the positive impact of animals being so strong.
AAT has been shown to help with shyness, memory, empathy, communication, depression, moods, socializing and general well-being. Animal companionship has helped people profoundly.
According to the Douglas Mental Health University, animals also provide benefits to those with Alzheimer’s disease. They suggest that the presence and emotional stimulation animals provide captures the patients’ attention and helps them maintain contact with reality, puts them in a calming state of mind (versus aggressive tendencies), and helps them remember past experiences, often associated with animals.
Simply being a pet owner can be just as powerful. Studies have found a relationship between lower blood pressure and owning a pet, in addition to some of the general benefits.
Benefits of Owning a Pet
• Promotes physical activity
• Offers unconditional love
• Provides a comforting presence
• Evokes a sense of joy and interest in life
• Promotes social interaction.
Although it is the challenges that often come to mind first when considering pet care, there is no denying the profound treasures of owning a pet. Whether you have a limited support system and need a friend or a little comfort, or have a couple of pounds to work on, the benefits of being around animals are as limitless as the love they provide.
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