no matter what age!

Did you know that May7th – May 13th we celebrate National Pet Week, and it’s incredible to think that over 393.3 million pets live in the US alone- can you imagine the world numbers?  Two out of every three American households includes a pet as of a study conducted Dec 2022. So, why do all of us who are animal lovers seem so unselfish and responsible to our four-legged buddies who share our lives? So willing to take responsibility for their health, well-being and their particular own aging process? The answer is simple:
THEY MAKE YOU HAPPY!
And being happy is a state most people would like to achieve. With that in mind- would you rather be a happy person with an animal or cuddle with your new pocketbook? Frankly, there is no contest.
Pets can help and reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and ease loneliness and it’s proven cardiovascular benefits contribute to better health. For our grandchildren, animals provide security, responsibility, a sense of commitment, and broadens their world.  For all of us, companionship is the comforting feeling we all get in this relationship of animal and human.

Did you know medically that interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure? Other studies have found that animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost your mood.

If you can’t have an animal due to lifestyle or otherwise, there are great health benefits waiting still for you: go and volunteer at your local shelter. They will be thrilled to have you- the animals will embrace you, and you get all the benefits to boot. 

On a lighter note, here are 5 simple reasons why we think animals are important; and why our four-legged pals make us happy:

1. They are covered in fur!
2. They can’t talk- and they can’t talk back!
3. They are honest with their feelings, non-judgmental and mindful of life’s every moment.
4. They make us feel like we are always #1!
5. No matter what the situation, what’s for dinner, or what the weather is like, and including but not limited to: they always acknowledge and mind us- animals love us unconditionally and wholly.