However, at least one evaluation of a companion animal program failed to show positive gains for those who acquired pets relative to a comparison group; among pet owners, though, affection for pets was positively related to morale. Studies suggest elderly pet owners have significantly lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels than elderly people with no pet. Compared with residents who were exposed to stuffed pets, videotapes of pets, or no pets at all, those residents exposed to actual pets showed higher levels of alertness and smiling. The researchers drew conclusions that relationships with pets cannot be considered substitutes for close interpersonal relationships, it cannot be assumed that a pet in the home will ease the loneliness felt after the loss of a human companion and most importantly, a widowed person should not be encouraged to take pets during the early grief period but may benefit from a companion animal only when he or she feels ready for a relationship with a pet. Not only do pets give elderly persons who have no one to love and care for them a reason to go on, but pets also give unconditional love. Read More

[Tags]pets, pet, elderly, people, animals, owners, natural pet health[/Tags]