Here in the valley we love our dogs and cats. But what is it about the smallest members of our families that makes them such trusted friends? Both dog and cat owners often treat their pets as both friends and family members and not as simple pets. There are many real medical benefits to having a dog as a life long friend and companion.
It may sound crazy to some, but having a dog can actually improve your overall health and quality of life. Owners of both dogs and cats have been shown to live longer, have boosted immune systems, and lower blood pressure. It has also been shown that people with pets in their lives suffer less from anxiety and depression. All of this contributes directly to you and your whole families overall quality of life.
For families with children, owning a dog can also be an educational experience. Early pet ownership helps teach your children responsibility. With the daily tasks that need preforming such as feeding, grooming, and exercising a pet, children will develop an awareness for the care and responsibilities of having a pet. One study showed just the presence of a dog in a child’s environment aided in the children’s general responsiveness and overall ability to pay attention to their surroundings.