8 Wednesday <strong>April</strong> <strong>29</strong> <strong>2020</strong> 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 <strong>Selwyn</strong> 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
SELWYN TIMES Latest Canterbury news at starnews.co.nz Wednesday <strong>April</strong> <strong>29</strong> <strong>2020</strong> 9