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"Not to hurt our humble brethren [the animals] is our first duty to them, but to stop there is not enough. We have a higher mission:
to be of service to them wherever they require it."
Saint Francis of Assisi
The Benefits of Pet Ownership
From the American Animal Hospital Association
May / June 2013
We've all heard it before: Owning a pet is a big responsibility. I remember rolling my eyes at my parents as they tried to explain this concept to me during my pre-teen years, but my desire for a kitten at the time outweighed any thoughts of cleaning out a litter box, or making sure the cat had adequate amounts of food and water
As an adult, I now fully understand the requirements of being a good pet owner. But, just because it takes time and effort, it doesn't mean owning a pet is all work. In fact, if you do it right, it's mostly a bunch of play.
Something to smile about
Your cat's purr as she rubs her cheek against yours. Your dog's wagging tail and excitement as you walk in the door after a stressful day at work. For pet owners, it's no secret that our four-legged friends bring us comfort, happiness and joy. And there are plenty of scientific studies to back that fact.
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Get Ready for Summer with Your Dog |
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As the long, sun-filled days of summer approach, many of us struggle to shed the few extra pounds we added for wintertime insulation. Luckily, a few activities you can do with your dog will help get you both healthy and ready for the beach.
(Consult your veterinarian before beginning an exercise program for your pet.) |
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According to a 2011 study by Miami University and St. Louis University, published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology (JPSP), pets increase a person's sense of belonging, self-esteem and meaningful existence. Researchers also found pet owners were happier, healthier and more adjusted than non-owners, and that the emotional benefits of pet ownership can be equal to those of human friendship.
Pet owners are 40% less likely to develop anxiety and 30% less likely to develop depression. After only a few moments with a pet, hormone levels associated with stress are lowered, and brain chemicals associated with well-being increase.
It's not all in your head
With the many documented mental and emotional benefits of having a pet, it's probably no shock that pet owners also enjoy physical health benefits. Dr. Stanley Coren, professor of psychology at the University of British Columbia, noted in a 2009 article for Psychology Today, that an Australian study of 5,741 people revealed pet owners had lower levels of blood pressure and cholesterol than non-owners, even when both groups had the same poor lifestyles involving smoking and high-fat diets.
Pet owners are more likely to be physically active, and are less likely to be obese than non owners. They also have a lower risk of dying from any cardiac disease, including heart failure.
Another study showed that children with hypertension lowered their blood pressure while petting their dog. And, according to researchers, when children grow up in a home with a dog or cat, they are less likely to develop allergies. Kids with ADHD also benefit from having pets, learning to be responsible, releasing excess energy while playing and experiencing unconditional love—helping them to learn about self-esteem.
With all of the benefits associated with pet ownership, it's really a no-brainer.
By Sarah Rumple
PHONE NUMBER: (509) 925-2833 This number works during business hours and for after hours calls.
EMERGENCIES: The phone number above will reach an after-hours message system. If you choose option 1 you will be connected with the on-call doctor's cell phone to speak directly or leave voicemail. If you choose option 2 you may leave a message but it will not be picked up until the next business day. Payment in full is expected at time of services. We share after hours responsibilities with the veterinarians of Valley Veterinary Hospital and patients may be seen at either hospital.
HOURS: Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 am to 12:00 noon
ADDRESS: 1800 Vantage Highway
We are on the corner of Vantage Highway and Pfenning Rd. kitty-cornered across from Knudson's Lumber
DIRECTIONS FROM FREEWAY: From I 90 westbound take exit 109 turn right on Canyon Road towards town and drive 1.8 miles to stop light (7-Eleven on corner) and turn right on University Way. Drive 1.6 miles to above address.
From eastbound I 90 take exit 106 and turn left on University Way towards town and drive 3.9 miles to above address. (There will be no turns and you will drive all the way through town past the University.)
WILDLIFE INFORMATION: Some of our wildlife services are changing. Due to state administrative decisions leading to the loss of our local rehabilitation support and the loss of a major rehabilitation center in Selah we will no longer be able to handle the volume of wildlife that we have in the past. We will only handle wildlife from Kittitas County. Wildlife coming from other counties should contact their regional wildlife office.
WDFW Yakima (509) 575-2740 WDFW Epharta (509)754-4624
This means we will no longer be able to handle barn owl babies from the hay companies; they can be taken to the only remaining wildlife rehabilitation center in central Washington at Blue Mountain Wildlife (541) 278-0215 or (509) 366-0888 in Benton City. Please do not bring them to Ellensburg from out of the county as we will not be able to take them. When Ellensburg Animal Hospital is closed or Dr. Fuller is not available please contact the Yakima regional wildlife office listed above or Blue Mountain Wildlife.
If you wish to comment on the lack of support for sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife please contact the regional office of the Department of Fish and Wildlife in Yakima. Our local wildlife agents in Kittitas County have been very supportive, they already carry as much of a work load as they can and are unable to respond to many of these calls.