Pets enrich our lives in many ways. The love they give us is unsurpassed in quantity and quality. They make us laugh and see the lighter things of life, even as they heal our ailing spirits and promote our better health.

Studies have shown than owning a pet has successfully lowered patients' blood pressures. Since high blood pressure can lead to stroke and disability, this is no small feat. Their contribution to human health is a lifesaver.

Dogs are often brought into hospital wards and convalescent homes on a regular basis so patients can connect with an animal companion. Just being able to touch and talk to a friend who loves them unconditionally helps the emotional well-being of the sick and elderly.

A healthy mind leads to a healthy body. And, owning an animal helps to create a healing sauve for a hurting heart. Notice how a dog laps your face when you cry. It doesn't matter why you are bawling. No matter how silly the reason may be for your tears, in his mind a disaster has occurred -- his human is hurting. He responds by comforting you in the best way he knows how.

Older people whose children have grown up and gone away benefit from owning a pet of any kind. It not only gets them up in the morning with a purpose to go on, but it serves as a friend and constant companion when they are alone. Often, a pet becomes an older person's best possible companion -- at least it is one which they know will never move away from home and call only on holidays!