It was pretty plain to see if you were at Pet-a-Palooza over the weekend. Dogs are good for you.

After about 6 hours at this big dog party — I even hung around after I was finished work, hahah — I was a perfect case study, petting animals is serious therapy. I was absolutely filled with joy after petting an unnumbered pooches and chatting with their owners. Here’s the research behind it:

Studies have found that:

One of the reasons for these therapeutic effects is that dogs (and cats) fulfill the basic human need to touch. Even hardened criminals in prison have shown long-term changes in their behavior after interacting with dogs, many of them experiencing mutual affection for the first time. Stroking, hugging, or otherwise touching a loving animal can rapidly calm and soothe us when we’re stressed or anxious. The companionship of a pet can also ease loneliness, and most dogs are a great stimulus for healthy exercise, which can substantially boost your mood and ease depression. (re-blogged from www.helpguide.org)

That’s correct, cats too. Pretty much all pets have this effect on humans, which explains why my daughter and I would like each of one of the following:

  • Infinity kitties
  • A Golden Retriever
  • A Border Collie
  • Any other dog that gives us “that look”
  • A bunny
  • An iguana
  • A skunk
  • A racoon

While these may not all be rational options for pets, it’s clear — humans and animals are perfect for each other. Oh, and thanks for letting me pet your dog.

More research on this….

Mel Z – Middays on Ocean 98.5

Photos by Mel Z