The Value of a Pet

Many studies have demonstrated the value of companion animals in our lives and there are many ways in which animals contribute to society. Here are some examples of how animals enrich our lives.

Written by Dr. Leah Faudskar

1. Companionship
2. Stress and blood pressure reduction
3. Assistance with vision, hearing, physical disabilities and seizure warning
4. Search and Rescue
5. Drug and explosives detection
6. Criminal apprehension
7. Security
8. Herding
9. Hunting and field trials
10. Racing, agility, obedience and conformation competition
11. Development of new medical devices and drugs

 
Many states consider animals to be property and thus can be handled in any way the property owner sees fit. But some states are changing pet ownership to pet guardianship. A guardian protects the health and well being
 
Did you know the life span of a well cared for dog or cat can exceed 15 years?  This is in contrast to the average life span of a dog or cat that runs free, has no vaccinations and is not spayed or neutered which is 3 years.
 
Pet ownership requires a financial and moral commitment. Consider these facts and ask yourself these questions:

• Approximately 6 million dogs and cats are destroyed in humane societies and shelters every year in this country.

Do I contribute to the overwhelming problem of pet overpopulation by allowing my intact male or female pet to wander and breed indiscriminately?

• Every year children are diagnosed with parasite infections from animal parasites.

Do I contribute to the transmission of disease from pets to people by not using a monthly intestinal parasite control products or by failing to update rabies vaccinations?

• The source of infectious disease or reservoirs of disease are those animals that are infected and that come into contact with vulnerable animals or the carriers of disease.

Do I contribute to the transmission of disease from animal to animal by not controlling heart worm, fleas and ticks in my pet as well as not vaccinating for life threatening diseases such as distemper and feline leukemia?
 
We all know how simple it is to acquire a dog or a cat. When you are faced with the costs of pet ownership, how will you answer the question “Do you want a pet or this pet”?  Celebrate National Pet Health Week by making a sincere commitment to the animals in your life. 

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