Dogs: Our best friends in sickness and in health
Dogs, often hailed as humans’ best friends, have been the topic of many scientific studies looking into how they might boost our well-being. In this Spotlight, we’ll explain how your friendly pup can benefit your health across the board.According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), an estimated 78 million dogs are owned as pets in the United States.
It is unclear when dogs were first domesticated, but a studyTrusted Source published last year claims that, at least in Europe, dogs were tamed 20,000–40,000 years ago.
It is likely that humans and dogs have shared a special bond of friendship and mutual support ever since at least the Neolithic period — but why has this bond been so long-lasting?
Of course, these cousins of the wolves have historically been great at keeping us and our dwellings safe, guarding our houses, our cattle, and our various material goods. Throughout history, humans have also trained dogs to assist them with hunting, or they have bred numerous quirky-looking species for their cuteness or elegance.
The Joys of Owning a Cat
Owning a cat can bring unconditional love and companionship to your life. Having a feline friend can also bring health benefits, helping to relieve stress and improve your heart health.Owning a cat can be an extremely rewarding relationship. A cat has the ability to both calm your nervous system and provide an immediate outlet for fun and play. Although cats are independent animals who like to scavenge and explore on their own terms, they are also very affectionate with their owners and people they trust.
Most cats love to curl up in your lap at the end of a long day while you watch television or read a book. The simplicity of this act can cause an automatic release of all the right kinds of chemicals to your brain, allowing you to ease into the evening without the weight of the world on your shoulders. Any cat owner will tell you just how much their furry friend helps them to relax and unwind. While many people enjoy the company of dogs, a cat can be more of an acquired taste—but once acquired, it’s a hard taste to lose.
5 Pet Wellness Tips For A Healthy and Happy Life
Wellness is something pet owners wish for our pets as much as we wish it for ourselves. Achieving wellness is a little different for our pets, though—it’s not like we can put our cats in a yoga class, or get our dogs to give up their morning kibble for kale and avocado smoothies.
Wellness simply means pursuing good health for your mind and body. Just like you can do this for yourself, you can do this for your pets. Here are some tips for boosting your furry friend’s overall health and wellness.
Keep Them At A Healthy Weight
Pet obesity is an epidemic in the US according to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Excess pounds put our pets at higher risk for many health problems, including but not limited to diabetes, kidney disease, skin conditions, and cancer.
Keeping your pets within the ideal weight range is one of the best ways to keep them happy and healthy so they are with you for a long time.
Feed Them A Healthy Diet
Good nutrition not only helps keep your pets at a healthy weight but also ensures they are getting all the vitamins and minerals they need to thrive. Pick a good quality pet food that is best suited for your pet’s specific needs (puppy, kitten, senior animal, overweight formulas, etc.).
All pet foods are not created equal. Read labels to ensure your pets are getting quality ingredients and all of the nutrients they need.