Love, Licks & Purrs

A cat or a dog isn't just a warm and cuddly fur ball and a loyal companion, pets are also good for your health and wellbeing.

A powerful neurochemical, oxytocin, is released when we look at our companion animal, which brings feelings of joy. Petting your pooch or kitty brings down blood pressure

"Having pets can help distract from chronic pain. Petting your animal releases endorphins—the same hormones that give a runner's high—and they are powerful pain relievers. That's been demonstrated in hospitalized patients who had a visit from an animal and reported less pain simply from one visit.In fact, Loyola University Chicago researchers found that people who underwent joint replacement surgery used less pain medication when they received pet therapy. And one American Journal of Critical Care study found that patients hospitalized for heart failure had improved cardio functioning when visited by a dog. The simple task of caring for a pet can also be a positive distraction for people in pain." - Health.com

I've had both cats and dogs, in the last years one of each, and I know that these facts are true. For me it's been a huge pain- and stress reliever to have these pets to take care of. They distract your mind and always gives you unconditional love and affection regardless which mood you're in.

I recommend to get informed about what's required before you decide to get a pet because it could mean a lot of work to take care of certain pets properly. And I always urge people to adopt instead of shop. There are a lot of abandoned cats and dogs out there who are just waiting for someone to love them. Just contact your nearest animal shelter.