Healthcare costs seem to be a topic for heated debate and uncertainty; everyone has an opinion and is willing to share. I am unsure when or if I have seen a more emotionally charged debate than the one on healthcare reform. What if we could change the whole debate with an alternative where everyone’s a winner?
It is difficult for me to remember my life when I was without a pet of some sort, if only a fish in a bowl. We form few relationships in life that are as strong and unconditional as the bond with our pets, who accept us even if we are fat, skinny, sick, healthy, or moody; pets are there to bring us joy in the best and worst of times. As a nurse caring for patients, I frequently see pictures of companion animals along with family photographs posted on beds and walls in patients’ rooms. Because of this strong bond, our pets become a significant extension of our family. I have seen pictures of a pet bring many smiles to a patient’s face—more than words or a family photograph can bring.
The devoted companionship we build with our pets is only the beginning of the benefits we reap from a human-animal bond. According to Mayo Clinic cancer specialist, Dr. Edward Creagan, “seniors with pets have 21 percent fewer physician visits, lower blood pressure and better coping skills.” The U.S. Department of Health concluded that pet owners who have had a heart attack have a 28% survival rate vs. only a 6% survival rate for those heart attack victims who do not own a pet. Other health benefits of pet ownership include: decreases in blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels; decreased feelings of loneliness; and increased opportunities for exercise, socialization, and outdoor activities. Studies have shown that nursing homes using companion animal therapy have experienced a significant reduction in prescription medications and an overall cost reduction for senior care.
Studies in Germany, Australia, and the United Kingdom concluded that pet ownership could save governments hundreds of millions, if not billions, of dollars. Research in the United States has shown pet ownership could reduce the number of physician office visits for seniors by 20 to 40 percent. Is it possible these savings could save the Medicare system? Maybe, maybe not. However, when we weigh all the health benefits of the human-animal bond, it becomes plain to see that the savings and benefits are significant.
October is Adopt-A-Dog® month and animal shelters have many adoptable dogs eager to become your loyal companion for life. Animal shelters and breed-rescue services have some truly amazing dogs in all sizes, shapes, and colors—mixed breeds to purebreds. A dog might not replace your need for health insurance, but you will laugh more, smile bigger, and have a heart filled with love. One thing is for sure, adopting a dog will save a life—maybe yours.
Visit your local community animal shelter or these online sources:
www.americanhuman.org
www.petfinder.com
www.spayusa.org or 800-248-SPAY (please be responsible spay or neuter your pet)
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about, please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
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