I was outnumbered 4 to 1. The vote was whether or not our family should get a dog, and I was the one dissenting vote. Before you think I am a bad person, let me clarify. I am not anti-dog, anti-pet or anti-animal. I am just anti-anything-else-that-I-have-to-take-care-of — and a dog definitely fits into that category.
To make a long story short, my kids presented a persuasive list of pros to having a dog, and a little over a year ago we drove to Kansas to pick up a cute little ball of black puppy fur that we named Oscar.
One of the “pros” on that list was that there are health benefits to having a pet. My response: “Seriously?” accompanied by an eye roll.
As Oscar’s first birthday came and went, I began to wonder if there was any truth to that statement.
I had seen first-hand how he was able to change the entire aura in our home. Two teenage girls and a 10-year-old little brother can equal drama, bickering and bad moods. When Oscar trots in, the mood completely changes and everyone switches into the silly “dog voice” talking in the special family “Oscar language” while forgetting whatever it was they were arguing about.
He is always first to greet everyone when they come home. He is the happiest member of the family in the morning and willing to go and do anything at any time. There has to be some health benefit to the positive atmosphere he brings to our home – right?
To my surprise, research has been conducted on the health benefits of having a pet. The results may surprise you.
Allergy Issues
I always thought having a furry pet would aggravate allergies or asthma symptoms. Research says the opposite when it comes to kids. Studies show that young children living with a pet can actually have a lower likelihood of developing allergies — even by as much as 33%. In addition, children exposed to animals at an early age tend to develop stronger immune systems overall.
Heart Health
Would you believe that pet owners typically have decreased blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which can ultimately minimize the risk of having a heart attack? It’s all related to stress levels, and having a pet can decrease or at least control a person’s stress level.
Get Moving
Many pets are active, which, in turn, requires their owners to be active. Whether it is playing in the backyard or going for one or more walks a day, your pet is the perfect personal trainer.
Can We Talk?
I’ve noticed that we can’t take Oscar anywhere — not even on a short walk — without someone stopping us to ask how old he is, what kind of dog he is, or even his name. A pet can force a person to get out of their box and can improve socialization skills.
Having a Bad Day?
Coming home to a pet that is overly excited to see you can erase all of the yucky-ness of the day. But, it goes beyond that. Pet companionship can provide much-needed therapy and mental healing for the elderly or those battling sickness or depression.
I think I will give Oscar an extra puppy treat and scratch his tummy a little longer tonight. It is my way of saying thank you for keeping us happy and healthy in his own little way.
Source: www.animalplanet.com
Anne Blankenbiller
K-12 & Teens
Most of my mornings, afternoons, and evenings are spent driving the kids here and there—and then back to here again. Every child is a gift on loan from God. As parents, our job is to raise that child to be an independent adult who can contribute to the world using the gifts and talents he or she was given. It is hands-down the most important job on earth!
