OT..A Pet In Your Life Keeps The Doctor Away | Arthritis Information

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Lowers blood pressure, encourages exercise, improves psychological health - these may sound like the effects of a miracle drug, but they are actually among the benefits of owning a four-legged, furry pet. This fall, the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction (ReCHAI) will explore the many ways animals benefit people of all ages during the International Society for Anthrozoology and Human-Animal Interaction Conference in Kansas City, Mo., on Oct. 20-25.

"Research in this field is providing new evidence on the positive impact pets have in our lives," said Rebecca Johnson, associate professor in the MU Sinclair School of Nursing, the College of Veterinary Medicine and director of ReCHAI. "This conference will provide a unique opportunity to connect international experts working in human-animal interaction research with those already working in the health and veterinary medicine fields. A wonderful array of presentations will show how beneficial animals can be in the lives of children, families and older adults.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/165580.php

I agree! Pets do help in many ways I've had pets all my life......I wish that were true. That said they offer great companionship esp. when your feeling your worstMy then pup "Buddy" helped get me thu some dark days in the beginning.  can vouch for all that article states. I cant remember a time that I haven't had an animal in my life and I am thankful for every single one of them. When Im feeling down, a hug, a warm tongue licking my face, a purring cat, an almost worried look, can bring me back up so very quickly. I am not ashamed to say that I relate to animals better than I do to humans.
 
My best friend is very near the end of his life. Nearly 14 yrs old and the most loyal loving dog anyone could have wished for. Had him to the vet today and he starts on anabolic steroids and tramadol tomorrow along with his usual antiinflamms for his arthritis. If they dont give him back some quality of life then he will go astral travelling with my arms wrapped around him.
 
Sorry if Ive gone on here....I feeling very sad.
 
You moved me with your best friend.

HI Lynn, I agree wholeheartedly! 

Lyndee, I am sure Stephens wonderful artwork will be a picture you willturn to many times in the future, it would be beautiful framed, I understand how you feel, my 'Alfie" a chihuahua is gorgeous and has terrible tummy probs (fits in well here!) and I often wonder will he be around much longer, make the most of the time you have with him and enjoy it, regards Janie.  Hi Lynn,
 
I know how you feel.  I have an elderly rescue schnauzer and she is pushing 14 years old now.  I have seen her slow down over the last year.  I always have one old rescue dog in my home and routinely have to face that question of quality of life issues.  You will know when the time is right....my thoughts are with you and your best friend...HG
Thanks everyone for the kind words...I am sorry to hijack the thread!
 
Stephen, I cant begin to tell you how I felt when I popped in here last night and saw this beautiful photo of Nelson that you worked a miracle on. I actually left the site right away as I was in  tears. Thank you so very very much. For sure I will get that printed and will find a special wall space just for that. Also is my desktop background.....just very beautiful.
 
{{ hugs}} from me, my man and Nelson.
 
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I, too, have had pets all my life.  I was always bringing home a stray and had as assortment of domestic as well as wild pets growing up.  Aw, who am I foolin'???  I still do!  My kitties got me through my pre-surgery days, as well as keeping me company post surgery.  One of my biggest worries during my hospital stay were wondering how my spoiled babies were doing!

Lyndee, you will know when the time comes, he will let you know.  Until then, don't dwell on how much time you have left, rather love each minute gifted.  The photo Stephen has done is so lovely, what a treasure!

Exceptional, Stephen!

Waddie
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