Boyle McCauley News

Since 1979 • April-May 2024 • Circulation 5000

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The Benefits of Having Pets

Pets help our health, both physical and mental.

There are many reasons why having a pet is good for us, especially for those with children, or who live alone. They give us love, a reason to get up in the morning, and they help us exercise. They add enthusiasm to our daily routine, help keep us safe, and actually contribute to our physical and mental health.

Some people ask, “But aren’t they a lot of trouble?” Well, yes, they add to our responsibilities, and make it harder to take holidays. Pets can be expensive to feed and clean up after. But they are worth it.

Why? Because pets become like family and give us something to care about besides ourselves. They help us think about others. I grew up in a family with pets, and then I raised a family of my own with pets. I saw how good it was for my girls to have a dog or cat to hug, and to learn to take care of them. They learned responsibility and to think of others. They watched kittens and puppies being born which taught them about caring for others. Pets teach us lessons in loving by example, by giving us unconditional love.

Physically pets are good for our health – mentally and physically. Research has shown that the very act of stroking a pet makes our bodies release beneficial hormones, and it does the same for the pet. Also, my dogs’ need for exercise makes me get outside and walk when I’d rather stay inside. I otherwise would not go out walking by myself, especially in cold weather. They help keep me safe when walking, and they protect the house. The cats helped solve a mouse problem in my garage. So, its a win-win situation on many levels.

I have always chosen to adopt rescues, either from a bad situation or from the Humane Society. There are so many animals that need a family, and they are usually very grateful for a new person and a good home. Each pet is different – just like people, they are funny, stubborn, or sweet. Adopting rescues also helps our city and neighbourhood.

The enthusiastic wagging of a dog’s tail, and the happy look on their face, brings us a welcome of happiness and positivity. My cats purr as they sit down at my feet, or on my lap, happy to be near. Even outside in summer, they are content to sit and watch. That’s why pets, such as dogs and cats, are called our “best friends.” They teach us love and sharing, and we’re happy to love them back.

Joanne McNeal is a retired educator, artist and musician, who has had many dogs and cats, and even horses and chickens, over the years. She is helping to find a dog-park space in McCauley where dogs can run, exercise, and play freely.

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