Pets and Therapy

There was a snippet on the breakfast news this morning about pet therapy. Whether it is swimming with dolphins or hospital and prison visits with dogs, the consensus is that the unconditional acceptance of an animal is good for our wellbeing. People who are restricted by their environment are lifted by the presence of an animal. A dog, for example, does not question who you are, or what you’ve done – fat, slim, ugly or attractive, it’s all the same to them for a rub around the ear.

For a long time researchers have been telling us that pet ownership is good for reducing stress and consequently stress related illness. Owning a pet is likely to lead to a healthier, happier home life, lower blood pressure and it seems, it helps with schizophrenia.

I type this with a cat sitting on my lap. As my arms reach around her to the keyboard, my right arm is hampered somewhat by having her head resting in the crook of my elbow. However, I console myself with the knowledge that this temporary inconvenience is offset by the increase in my expected lifespan and general happiness with the world. Indeed, with eleven cats and four tortoises, I and Mrs Longrider must be two of the happiest people on the planet.

And, to ease your stress levels for the day, a gratuitous kitty picture: