by Pennie Sempell
The dog is under the table. The cat sheds her fur on the sofa. The guinea pig’s cage smells again and who’s going to change it this time? Wasn’t that supposed to be the kids’ job? So are pets worth the care and responsibility?
The decision to have pets involves many pros and cons depending on one’s circumstances. This article is to help provide you with some perspectives as pets related to health. It turns out that there are some very interesting reasons why having a pet might be good for health and school attendance.
For instance, I read that research has pointed to significantly less absenteeism from school through sickness among children who live with pets. A large survey conducted in Australia found that dog and cat owners make fewer annual doctor visits and are less likely to be on medication for heart problems and sleeping difficulties than non-owners.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) summarizes that pets can decrease your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness. Pets can increase opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities and for socialization. A variety of theories exist as to why such benefits be.
I recommend that your family engage in conversation together about pets – whether you have a pet or are considering one. What does (might) a pet add to the family? How much more exercise might the family get if a dog (a cat, a bird, a goldfish) joined the family? Do you consider your pet to be a valued member of the family? (Note: The vast majority of pet owners do feel this way). It’s a chance to practice your communication skills and perhaps make a healthy choice.
Working with physicians and psychologists at a major medical center, former teacher and mediator, Pennie Sempell, JD, ACMT specializes in integrative healing arts and mind-body therapies. She has written, performed and produced award-winning programs for children with a focus on health literacy. www.HealthierHappierLife.com.
The dog is under the table. The cat sheds her fur on the sofa. The guinea pig’s cage smells again and who’s going to change it this time? Wasn’t that supposed to be the kids’ job? So are pets worth the care and responsibility?
The decision to have pets involves many pros and cons depending on one’s circumstances. This article is to help provide you with some perspectives as pets related to health. It turns out that there are some very interesting reasons why having a pet might be good for health and school attendance.
For instance, I read that research has pointed to significantly less absenteeism from school through sickness among children who live with pets. A large survey conducted in Australia found that dog and cat owners make fewer annual doctor visits and are less likely to be on medication for heart problems and sleeping difficulties than non-owners.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) summarizes that pets can decrease your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and feelings of loneliness. Pets can increase opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities and for socialization. A variety of theories exist as to why such benefits be.
I recommend that your family engage in conversation together about pets – whether you have a pet or are considering one. What does (might) a pet add to the family? How much more exercise might the family get if a dog (a cat, a bird, a goldfish) joined the family? Do you consider your pet to be a valued member of the family? (Note: The vast majority of pet owners do feel this way). It’s a chance to practice your communication skills and perhaps make a healthy choice.
Working with physicians and psychologists at a major medical center, former teacher and mediator, Pennie Sempell, JD, ACMT specializes in integrative healing arts and mind-body therapies. She has written, performed and produced award-winning programs for children with a focus on health literacy. www.HealthierHappierLife.com.
