I’m pleased that it has been statistically proven that pets — specifically dogs – can enhance the quality of life for people living with chronic illness. These types of conditions can breed depression, but pets can improve overall health – physical, emotional, and mental. Not only are dogs proven to be therapeutic, but research has also shown that pet owners tend to live longer than people who do not own a pet.
My personal experiences have proven this theory time and time again. During my sophomore year in college, while struggling with Rheumatoid Arthritis for years and possible Fibromyalgia, as well, I woke up one day with the left side of my face paralyzed on top of everything else. It was found after testing that I had a condition called Bell’s Palsy – the cause of which is unknown and a malady that can be temporary or permanent. I had to take a medical withdrawal from school, and was not allowed to work. I was too self-conscious of my face – as well as the almost 40 lbs. I gained from medication – to even go out in public and socialize. Unfortunately, on top of being very sick, I also became slightly withdrawn and, with all of my friends away at school, and my parents working, I became lonely, too. Finally, my parents gave in to letting me get a puppy – LucyLoo, a Pug/Brussels Griffon mix (pictured, left), who soon became one of the great loves of my life. No one could ever understand the happiness she brought me during one of the hardest times I’d had in life up until that point. She became my little companion, and having to take care of her made me forget about having to worry about myself for awhile.
My Bell’s Palsy went away after a few months. Lucy helped me through a lot of hard times, and though she now lives with my parents, I still love her dearly. Now, I’m getting to enjoy the experience all over again. My boyfriend and I have recently welcomed another dog into our new home. We have been blessed to adopt a purebred Pug named Maggie (pictured, below). At present, I am dealing with another very difficult and frustrating time, health-wise. I am struggling with not only the RA but also with other chronic and seemingly never-ending, potentially serious, health problems – but having Maggie the Pug by my side (along with Gus, my Parakeet) the hard times have been just a little bit better. They can always put a smile on my face, even when I feel as though I have not much to smile about. On days when I don’t want to get out of bed, I know that I have to take care of them, and it gives me peace to worry about the well-being of another creature instead of always worrying about my own health. Though I do not feel any better physically, I do feel better emotionally with these animals by my side. Sure, I have a fabulous support system of family, friends, and loved ones that I appreciate and love dearly – but something about the pure, unconditional, and dependent love of owning a pet makes it a special type of companionship that is inexplicable, and that I value almost as much as the other relationships in my life.
I decided to do some research on the topic of pet ownership and human health. I came across a wonderful book called, “The Compassion of Animals”, which is filled with heartwarming stories about how pets can essentially not only enhance, but sometimes even save, your lives. In a study by Dr. Wells in the The British Journal of Health Psychology, it was found that dog owners have a longer life expectancy than those who do not own dogs, and are usually healthier in general. The reasons are that caring for an animal can alleviate stress, which promotes healthier immune function and overall wellness. Also, people that own pets are usually more physically active as they take their animals for walks, play with them, and so on.
While having the responsibility of caring for a pet may be overwhelming to someone who has a chronic illness or disability, the research is undeniable: pets make us happier, healthier, and, in most cases, increase longevity of life.
According to one article entitled, “When the Doc Wears Fur”, “any scientific studies have shown that pets have a positive effect on people — and especially on those of us living with a chronic condition. Pets not only ease loneliness, they help us break the spell of being mesmerized by our health concerns. Dogs help us exercise and socialize. Cats help us relax and feel soothed. Pets of all kinds help us laugh, feel reassured, and be in the present.”
Pets can alleviate and even prevent health conditions – particularly those triggered by stress. For people living with chronic or terminal illness, pets can be therapeutic and joyful.
Living with arthritis and other chronic conditions, it is important to exercise. Physical activity is key and having a pet to exercise with you is a great way to get motivated.
Exercising or playing with a pet is also a great way to harvest social interactions with others and a way to bring you closer with your loved ones.
Some dogs and other animals are trained to be medical therapy pets. Often, therapy dogs will be taken to visit senior citizens in assisted living homes, or children who are in the hospital. People also use dogs as service pets. Folks who are blind, prone to seizures, or with other serious health conditions depend on their pets both physically and emotionally to prevent potentially dangerous situations.
It is important when owning a pet to remember their health, too. When you live in chronic pain or with persistent illness, it is sometimes far too easy to get consumed by your own condition. It is important to remember to concern yourself with your pet’s wellness. Take them to the vets, and make sure they have proper food, hygiene, exercise, social interaction, etc. Remember, that as much as you depend on your pets, they depend on you even more! Dogs and horses are prone to arthritis, so remember as they age to make sure they aren’t having joint troubles like so many of us are!
While it is vital to surround yourself with a great support system of family and loved ones, don’t ever forget about “man’s best friend” – whether it flies, slithers, swims, gallops, or snores and slobbers like my little pug darlings. Pets can make the difficulties of life seem so much easier.
I’d love to hear how your pets have helped you cope with your illness! Feel free to leave a comment and share your thoughts!
As always, thank you for reading.
Be well,
~Ashley Boynes
Community Development Director
WPA Chapter
No comments:
Post a Comment