Originally posted September 28, 2007
Many areas of research now document the healing power of “pets” and their human companions. Having a four-legged companion increases physical health for the human and the animal companion as well. Why is that? Many say that our animal companions are truly connected to us and are in our lives for many reasons.
A growing body of evidence in different populations, varying from attorneys, to nursing homes residents, to individuals with mental health disorders (i.e. depression), are showing an improvement in their physical and emotional health when they live with an animal companion. It is well-documented. So, if you want to lower your blood pressure and risk factors for heart disease, find a doggy companion! Follow these links to learn even more about the research:
http://mentalhealth.about.com/cs/mindandbody/a/pups504.htm
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=36402
http://www.drmartinwilliams.com/healingpets/healingpets.html
But, ……before I go on, I have to let you know I have some hesitancy in using the word “pet”. The common thought around the word “pet” is that an animal companion is more like an object that is “owned” and is “less” than we, their human companions. Anyone who lives with, or has lived with, a furry friend knows that this is a very precious, two-way relationship. When you see or hear the word “pet” in this blog or on our website, SerenityPathways.com, it is with the Webster Dictionary definition and thought of the “pet” being “adored and much loved.”
Our animal companions are with us for a reason. They communicate to us through their behavior and, if you really “listen”, they communicate in other ways also. Our four-legged friends are in our lives just as our spouses, significant others, children, family and friends are. Each animal companion has a gift they bring to us, just as we have our own special gifts. When you connect to your four-legged companion (or two-legged) it is within that connection of pure, unconditional love that wonders happen. Our furry friends love us unconditionally.
Spend time with your animal companion(s)–they love spending time with their human companions! Play with them; play helps them and us! Take a “pet pause” and be still. Cats can be elegantly quiet. However, they like to “be still” on their own time. Dogs can so easily learn to love the stillness of relaxing on their human companion’s schedule.
Playing and relaxing with your animal companion increases your furry friend’s ability to stay healthy and be in a “healing” space if needed. When you listen to the “Pet Pause” in the “Pet” Rooms you can hold a thought or image of your animal companion or a furry friend who has transitioned. They will feel your connection.
For you dog lovers, How to Meditate With Your Dog: An Introduction to Meditation for Dog Lovers is a great book to find that deeper connection. Cat Lovers you may enjoy Zen Cat.
Visit the Resource Page in the Pet Rooms for many more links and resources for your four-legged companion.
Get a furry dose of love today! You will look younger, feel better and be glad you did. Do you have a special furry friend story? Blog and tell us!
Lover of cats and my adopted dog,
Bonnie
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