Get a Pet-Stay Healthy!
Pets love us unconditionally but they are more than
companions, owning a pet may improve your health. Here's what some experts
say:
* Blood pressure. Petting your dog or cat can lower
your BP, as well as your pets. One study of New York stockbrokers found that
those who adopted pets experienced better blood pressure and heart
rates.
* Physical activity. Owning a dog almost forces you
into taking several walks a day. The exercise can improve your health and bring
you into contact with other pet owners, relieving stress and
loneliness.
* Heart attack recovery. The odds for surviving a
heart attack seem to improve dramaticaly if you own a pet. Pet ownership
contributes to an increased one-year survival rate for people who have been
hospitalized for heart problems.
*Alzheimer's disease. Some studies suggest that
elderly people with Alzheimers have fewer outbreaks of anxiety with an animal
companion nearby. A pet can also help relax a patient's primary caregiver who's
also at risk of stress-related ailments.
(Information from Health Advocates
Alliance)
