PET THERAPY DAY

BY KATE McCARTHY

Is On Thursday 11 April

The companionship of pets has been cherished across cultures and epochs. The bond between man and animal, while emotionally fulfilling, also harbours significant psychological and physical benefits, contributing to an owner's well-being. From the wag of a dog's tail to the purr of a cat, pets offer more than just companionship; they provide a unique form of support that enhances human health.

Psychologically, pets serve as a constant source of comfort and companionship, effectively reducing feelings of loneliness and depression. The presence of a pet can offer a sense of unconditional acceptance and love, which can be particularly therapeutic. Studies have shown that pet owners, on average, exhibit lower levels of stress and anxiety compared to those without pets. This calming influence is partly attributed to the increase in levels of oxytocin, a stressreducing hormone, which is released during interactions with animals. Engaging with a pet can also elevate levels of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters associated with happiness and tranquillity.

Pets require a routine of care, providing structure and purpose to their owners' lives. This responsibility can significantly benefit individuals suffering from mental health issues by offering a distraction from troubling thoughts, encouraging mindfulness, and promoting a sense of achievement and self-worth. For instance, walking a dog not only demands physical activity but also encourages social interaction with other dog owners, combating isolation and promoting community belonging.

Physically, the benefits of owning certain types of pets extend to improved cardiovascular health. Dog owners, are more likely to meet daily physical activity recommendations, leading to lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol levels, and decreased risk of obesity. The act of walking a dog or engaging in play provides moderate exercise, contributing to the owner’s overall physical health. Furthermore, pet owners have been found to have a lower risk of heart disease, with some studies suggesting that they may also experience faster recovery rates from heart attacks.

Pets also play a role in child development, teaching children responsibility, empathy, and compassion. The presence of pets in a home can reduce the likelihood of developing allergies and asthma in children, as exposure to pet dander and the microorganisms that pets carry from outdoors can strengthen the immune system during its developmental stages.

In addition to these benefits, pets can serve in therapeutic roles, such as in animal-assisted therapy programs, helping individuals recover from or cope with health challenges such as PTSD, autism, and stroke. The interaction with therapy animals has been shown to improve motivation, engagement, and overall mood in patients undergoing rehabilitation or treatment for chronic conditions.

The benefits of pet ownership extend well beyond companionship. From enhancing mental health through the alleviation of stress and loneliness to promoting physical activity and heart health, the presence of a pet in one’s life can be profoundly beneficial, fostering a healthier, happier life. If you would like to tell us about how your pet improves your life then please contact office@infocusmagazines.co.uk and do send a pic! (Ed.)

Dr Davina Mahoney

Dr John Harker

Dr Sharad Patel

Dr Mauricio Carrillo

If you have moved to this area, or are looking for a new dentist, we would love for you to come and join our friendly Bognor Regis practice. We pride ourselves on a partnership built on trust and mutual respect to improve your dental health. We aim to work with you to provide optimum dental care with the latest and advanced dental treatments, transparent costs and a friendly experience every time you visit us.

Felpham Dental Implant Clinic `

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At Felpham Dental we offer a full range of cost-effective treatments for both general and cosmetic dentistry. These include whitening, veneers, crowns, white fillings, dental implants, root canal treatments and facial aesthetics including intradermal wrinkle treatments.

We accept referrals for complex root canal treatments with Dr John Harker, and oral surgery referrals including facial pain and migraine, with Dr Mauricio Carrillo.

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Felpham Dental

83 Felpham Road

Bognor Regis.PO22 7PF (Opposite Milestones Garage)

Tel: 01243 864663 felphamdental@aol.com www.felphamdental.com