OK, we all know there are many advantages to sharing your life with a dog, but how about this! The New York Times is reporting on a study being done by the the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, part of the National Institutes of Health, in cooperation with the Waltham Center for Pet Nutrition in England (part of the Mars candy and pet food company).
The study is still in its infancy, with the National Institute of Child Health seeking proposals that “focus on the interaction between humans and animals.” In particular, it is looking for studies on how these interactions affect typical development and health, and whether they have therapeutic and public-health benefits. It also invites applications for studies that “address why relationships with pets are more important to some children than to others” and that “explore the quality of child-pet relationships, noting variability of human-animal relationships within a family.”
The study originated based on all the stories that have been published of dogs having such a great effect on kids, particularly those children who have emotional problems. If you read the whole article, you will learn about a dog who had a tremendously calming effect on an autistic child, to the point where he may be able to stop taking some of his medications.
We all know our dogs are special, but this study may point out just how special and why.
Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!
P.S. Coming soon to the Dog Den: an article on hero dogs and how they have impacted their humans’ lives.
pet is good to the family.pet can remove stress specially to the people who are busy to their work..if you are thinking what kind of pet you like to bring to your home choose a dog it can also guard your home even if you away to your home..
We all know there are some great benefits to owning a family pet especially for children. If managed correctly pet ownership can teach children about being responsible, not only for a living thing but also on a host of tasks. But did you know that owning a pet can also help reduce your health care costs?
Lower Your Blood pressure!
Lower your Health Care Costs!
Bring a Pet into Your Home!
According to the 2009/2010 National Pet Owners Survey, 62% of U.S. households own a pet which equates to 71.4 million homes. In 1988, the first year the survey was conducted, 56% of U.S. households owned a pet as compared to 62% in 2008. This shows a continual growth in the number of people sharing their lives and homes with pets. It may come as no surprise to learn that there are numerous health benefits to owning a pet so whether owning a pet is a conscious decision or not in terms of owner health it certainly needs to be celebrated (APPA)
Dr Karen Allen, State University of New York at Buffalo, believes that pets help to Lower Blood Pressure in their owners. A recent study found that people who owned a dog or cat and suffered from hypertension had lower blood pressure readings when under stress than those in the same situation who were not pet owners (Dr. Karen Allen, State University of New York at Buffalo).
Pets are faithful companions and research shows that dogs and cats help owners remain psychologically stable during times of stress, particularly single men. Pet ownership also helps fight depression and loneliness. The bond between a human and a pet can create a feeling of security and diminish feelings of isolation. And exercising your dog regularly provides the you with the benefits of regular exercise and the opportunity to meet other dogs and their owners (National Institute of Health Technology Assessment Workshop: Health Benefits of Pets).
Now with all this said, choosing the right dog or cat is very important. You should consider breed, size, activity level, care requirements and much more. Will you rescue a dog or cat and adopt it from a shelter or will you use a breeder? However you decide to find your new pet, contact your local DogSmith. Your local DogSmith can help you with your choice, discuss your options with you and even assist you in temperamental testing to ensure you pick a pet that will comfortably assimilate into your home. DogSmith Dog Trainers also offer “Pet Dog Selection” consultations. Once your new dog is home your DogSmith can help you with house training, crate training and socialization prior to you embarking on your dog obedience education goals.
This initial effort will pay huge dividends over the years in the quality companionship you will gain from your new family pet and hopefully a reduction in your health care costs!
To find your local DogSmith or if you are interested in becoming a DogSmith Dog Trainer call 1-888-Dog-Smith or visit http://www.888DogSmith.com.