Selwyn Times: April 29, 2020

8 Wednesday April 29 2020
Latest Canterbury news at starnews.co.nz
SELWYN TIMES
PETS & PAWS
Our constant companions
The healing
power of pets
Animals have a way of working
their way into our lives and our
hearts. They not only provide
us with unconditional love and
companionship but they also help
us through tough times and remind
us about the things that matter in
life. Animals keep us grounded.
It is well documented that
animals can help humans during
times of stress. Companion animals are
perfect for this. While cats and dogs
are the most popular of companion
animals, many other animals and birds
including budgies, hens, geese, guinea
pigs, rabbits, birds, horses, donkeys, sheep,
goats and so many more can provide the
companionship humans crave.
Animals bring respect and affection to
our lives. They ask for little more than
a warm home and to be well-fed, and
in return, they offer so much more -
friendship, love and companionship.
Surveys reveal animals help improve
physical and mental health
The pet effect, that is the bond between
animals and people, can help reduce
depression, anxiety, stress, blood pressure
and loneliness. Having a cat, dog or other
pet in our lives can improve our sense
of well-being, support healthy ageing,
improve heart health and help with
conditions such as autism and Alzheimer’s
disease.
Scientific data studies report that the
activation of the oxytocin system plays
a key role in the psychological and
psychophysiological effects of humananimal
interactions. This is the area known
as the ‘love hormone’, released by the
pituitary gland and responsible for human
behaviours associated with relationships
and bonding. However, it is good to know
that pets also benefit from the humananimal-bond
just as much as people.
Ways pets can improve your life
Social life
Pets help us connect with other people,
whether it’s out walking the dog or
chatting online with other people who
have similar pets.
Fitness
Long walks with the dog, playing in the
garden with the rabbit, riding a horse in
the paddock or being with other outdoor
animals can help us enjoy the fresh air
and contribute to our overall fitness and
wellbeing.
Lift mood
The love from pets and their fun
antics help improve our feelings
of happiness; giving and receiving
that love and companionship can
give us a feeling of belonging and
of being needed.
Animals are
such agreeable
friends – they
ask no questions,
they pass no
criticisms.
George Eliot
Teach empathy and kindness
Including a pet in your family will teach
children how to be kind, show respect,
have a sense of responsibility and also how
to care for another living being.
Increase life expectancy
Owning a pet may increase how long we
will live. How? Research shows that older
people living on their own can benefit
from having a cat or dog to love and care
for each day. Pets offer daily company and
a reason to get up each morning.
Pet Boarding
dog grooming
doggy daycare
Dogs, Cats,
Rabbits,
Guinea Pigs
& Birds
Manufacturers of
Fine Natural Pet Food
Variety of 10kg
Mixes
for cats
and dogs
$45-$55
FREE MEASURES
& QUOTES
FOR A HUGE RANGE OF
PET DOORS TO SUIT
YOUR NEEDS
Zac Johnston Owner/Glazier
027 349 7023
zac@crystalglass.co.nz
554 Jones Rd, Templeton. P: 03 347 8835 E: bunnylodge@xtra.co.nz
www.bunnylodge.co.nz
Phone (03) 347 0626
Shop 4, 855 Jones Road, Rolleston (opposite Redpaths)
Hours: Mon-Tue 9am-5pm, Wed-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat 10am-1pm
Certified SureFlap
supplier and installer
GET A PAW IN THE DOOR!
...And let Selwyn pet lovers know
about your pet business!
CALL Lynette TODAY to discuss your
business advertising options!
DDI: 03 364 7434 Mobile: 021 222 7831 Email: Lynette.Evans@starmedia.kiwi