Happiness is Pets - their Love is Unconditional

happiness is pets - playing ball with the dogs
27 million pets are owned in the U.K. alone. Clearly Happiness is Pets and benefit us in so many ways. 2006 USA statistics show that American pets include 72 million dogs and 82 million cats...not to mention all the other pets.

The world can seem big and lonely. You can feel small and afraid - but not when you have a pet. Pets need you. They will always listen to you.

'I may not remember all my friends' names - but I sure remember all my pets names.'
- Author unknown.
'All I pay my psychiatrist is the cost of feed and hay, and he'll listen to me any day.'
- Author Unknown
Read more Pet Quotes

Ask any pet owner if they talk to their pets. You can't help but talk to them and a 'trouble shared is a trouble halved' as they say. They satisfy our need to be needed, they love you unconditionally and ask for little in return - Pets NEED us and we need them.

The Therapeutic Benefits of Pets

Everyone wants to be loved and needed. Caring for pets fulfills the nurturing role for kids and adults alike. Many older people would be lost and lonely without companionship from their cat or dog - here are the Top 10 most popular dogs.

Whether it's the curiosity of stick insects, the changing colors of the Chameleon, the relaxation of aquarium or pond fish or the interaction between horse and rider, pets hold a deservedly special place in our lives and memories.

Though some benefits may not be scientifically proven we tend to agree on the feel-good factor when watching, playing with or stroking pets.

Our fin, furry and feathered friends can be responsible for:

  • lower blood pressure - particuarly watching fish or stroking dogs and cats
  • reduced heart rate therapeutic benefits of pets
  • relaxation
  • a mood boost through increased serotonin levels (feel-good hormone)
  • increased social interaction - see Dogs and Autism
  • develop outward focus
  • improve confidence & self-esteem - e.g Horse riding
  • they are entertaining and fun to watch (and Dolphins are popular to swim with)

Additionally pets help children (and adults with learning difficulties) to

  • develop nurturing skills
  • feel empathy
  • take on responsibility -e.g.Kids with ADHD
  • experience life processes, birth and death

Special skills dogs have been used for years in a wide range of contexts. With new discoveries and training their range of support functions continues to grow.

Thinking of getting a dog? Read here 7 things to consider when choosing the best dog for you.

Happiness is Pets - Therapeutic Benefits - The Research

# POST-OP SURVIVAL.
  • A study at City Hospital New York showed increased likelihood of survival longer than one year for heart patients who owned animals compared to those who did not.

  • Among heart patients, pet owners have higher survival rates than those with a spouse or friends.

# FISH FOR RELAXATION

  • Several studies show that patients registered lowered blood pressure and relaxation by watching aquarium fish before an operation. The results were similar to those produced through hypnosis.
# INCREASED COMMUNICATION
  • Many schemes now exist to bring pets (especially dogs) into nursing homes and hospitals for their beneficial

  • effects. They lift the mood and provide a focal point of interest. Less communicative residents will often talk more when a pet is introduced.

# INCREASED SEROTONIN LEVELS (the feel good hormone)
  • For Depression (find out about symptoms of depression)...interaction with animals, especially dogs causes seratonin levels (brain neurotransmitter) to rise as well as the feel-good hormones prolactin and oxytocin.

IMPORTANT!

You are responsible for Your Pet's wellbeing. In return they offer support, protection, amusement, soothing, relaxation, comfort, love and affection. I could go on, the list is endless. Check out my Happiness is Pets Poem.

Whether you keep fish, reptiles, birds or mammals - Happiness is pets. Of course. it's not a one-way street and your pet's health and wellbeing is of paramount importance - a pet MUST fit with your temperament, your lifestyle and living space.

'Dogs are better company than husbands and they don't talk back
- or if they do, you can put them out.'
~ Author unknown.

YOUR Treasured Pet Stories

She was beautiful.. the fur on her long silky ears had just a hint of a curl. Her big doe eyes gazed expectantly, reassuringly and lovingly into mine.

happiness is pets = childhood memories

Bruff was my companion, my confidant, my problem-solver. Having three brothers and three sisters does not guarantee you a listening ear and understanding. My busy parents just didn't have the time - a pet does.

Bruff, a faithful cocker spaniel was the first dog we ever had. I was about six or seven. We'd moved miles away, new house, new school, new existence. I seem to remember she was new too. We only had chickens before and I don't remember them being much company. Bruff will always have a special place in my heart.

Read a visitor treasured pet story the adventures of Gypsy Rose and Tabby.

We'd love to hear YOUR treasured pet story and what your loving pet brings to your life. You can upload a photo too!
Your pet will have its own page right here at Happinesspages and touch the heart of others too, Come on don't be shy. Celebrate your treasured pet NOW.

Return from Happiness is Pets to Happinesspages.


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Click on the photo.

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