A. Have you ever experienced the unconditional love of a cat or dog?
Have you ever buried your face in a pet's soft fur---and for a
delightful moment or two ---- felt a moment of peace and
tranquility? Many people have.
B. But the value of a pet extends well beyond moments like these. A
pet may actually help keep you healthy.C. If you do not already have a pet, you may consider adopting one. If you already have a pet, you may cherish that pet more after
what I have to say.
Body:
A. What scientists know about your health and pets.1. Dogs need to be walked. The benefits of walking are well
documented.
2. Protect your health after a heart attack. People who own
pets compared to those who do not, are more likely to be
alive a tear after a heart attack.3. Protect your heart blood vessels and help you cope with
stress. People who have pets versus those who don't have
lower heart rates and blood pressure.
People with pets have
a less increase in heart rate and blood pressure when put
under stress. Their blood pressure also dropped faster after
a stressful event. People with pets show lower cholesterol.4. Improve your mood and sense of well being. Studies show that
adults who have pets are less likely to experience depression
than their counterparts who didn't have pets.
In people with
AIDS, those who have pets experienced less depression than
did the people with AIDS who didn't have pets. People in
nursing homes also experience less depression.5. General pet owners both younger and older have fewer overall
health complaints.
They have less problems sleeping, fewer
aches and pains, fewer headaches, and less digestion
problems.B. Pets and emotional well being.1.
Petting a pet gives some people a sense of purpose, and
encourages older people to be less apathetic and more
involved in daily activities.2. A pet gives a support system in times of crisis. If someone
has experienced a loss of a loved one, a pet may be just the
distraction they need.3. Studies show that children with pets can teach
responsibility.
It helps build self esteem and self-
confidence. Pets offer exposure to important issues such as
reproduction, birth, illness, accidents, death, and grief.Pets provide a connection to nature and teach respect,
empathy, and patience for other living things. Pets also
offer unconditional love, loyalty, affection, and comfort.4. Pets cannot replace human relationships, but they certainly
can enhance them.
C. Pets have been attributed to alerting owners of various
Hazards like fire and intruders. Not to rely on, but not
something to be overlooked.D.
Before getting a pet, there are some things to consider.1. Do you have time for a pet? Many pets such as cats and dogs
need daily exercise and your companionship. Pets generally
live up to 20 years.2.
Are you prepared for the financial commitment? Beyond the
cost of food, you'll have the cost of veterinary care,
licenses and grooming. Be prepared for unanticipated costs,
such as replacement cost for damaged property.3. Are pets allowed where you live? If you are in an apartment
this is an important issue. If you plan on moving in the
future where pets are not allowed consider what will happen
to your pet.4.
Do you have proper living space? If you are thinking of
bringing home a dog, will you have adequate space to
accommodate for your pet's activity level? Some breeds are
more active than others. You may need a yard for your pet to
burn off that energy. If you live in an apartment, consider
a breed whose barking is not so loud or frequent as to
disturb the neighbors.5. Are you physically capable of taking care of a pet? Consider
whether you or others in your home have a history of
allergies.
If you have physical limitations, be sure that it
won't keep you from caring for your pet.6. Do your research so you can pick a pet most suitable to your
personality and lifestyle.Conclusion:
The companionship and unconditional love a pet provides is priceless.Although time-consuming, the relationship can benefit you and your pet.
The care and nurturing you provide can result in improved health and well
being.
