By David L. Podos
Many people cannot fathom living in a world without animals and, more precisely, without having a furry family member.
I admit, I’m one of those people.
I grew up in a household where we always had a pet. There was never a time I remember of not sharing my childhood with either a dog or a cat, even a parakeet.
Now, well into my mature years that still continues.
Our pets are special to us. They can bring great joy into our lives. But there is something else that is quite magical about our furry friends. They can bring healing to people.
I have personally witnessed residents in nursing homes light up when someone brings a pet into the facility. The smiles on the faces of these elderly people when petting a cat, dog and even a pig, (yes, a pig), are priceless.
There is ongoing research into the healing power of animals.
For example, an article from the National Humane Society, “Reducing Stress and Anxiety: The Calming Effect of Companionship” states that “stress is an unavoidable part of life, but pets provide a natural antidote. Studies have shown that simply petting an animal can lower levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress and increase oxytocin, the feel-good hormone linked to trust and bonding. Dogs and cats are especially effective at helping individuals navigate anxiety, thanks to their ability to offer unconditional love and soothing physical presence.”
How many of us can relate to that?
I certainly can.
Many times, when I have felt overly anxious or just down in the dumps, simply petting my cat and hearing him purr brings me comfort. Last year I had several surgeries. When home and recuperating my pets hardly left my side. It was as if they knew I needed healing.
Depression can often cause people to hide away and stop doing routine tasks. Having a pet gently forces that person to follow a routine such as feeding, grooming, walking your pet, (dogs and even cats). That routine often helps in getting back to other daily routine schedules and duties which can bring a sense of accomplishment that ultimately can help reduce depression.
The healing that we receive from our animals works with our physical illnesses as well. The research on this is quite conclusive.
Animals play an important role in many people’s lives. In addition to seeing-eye dogs and dogs that can be trained to detect seizures, animals can also be used in occupational therapy, speech therapy or physical rehabilitation to help patients recover.
Research studies have found that people who have a pet have healthier hearts, stay home sick less often, make fewer visits to the doctor, get more exercise and are less depressed.
Among elderly people, pet ownership might also be an important source of social support that enhances well-being. In one study, elderly individuals that had a dog or cat were better able to perform certain physical activities deemed activities of daily living, such as the ability to climb stairs; bend, kneel or stoop; take medication; prepare meals; and bathe and dress oneself.
From LCMC, a nonprofit academic healthcare system based in New Orleans, a post of June 2026 pretty much sums it up,
While the health benefits of spending time with animals are numerous, pets are especially good for your heart health. Nearly half of all Americans have at least one risk factor for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death among both men and women in the US.
Having a pet or regularly spending time with animals in another setting may help lower those risk factors. Those who spend time with animals can experience decreased blood pressure, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels and a decreased risk of diabetes.
If you do not have a pet and are thinking about getting one, rescue animals are waiting for good homes across the country through many different organizations, especially humane societies. Your local humane society is the place to go.
Of course, having a pet as part of your family is a big responsibility and not to be taken lightly. The rewards are endless. From the emotional and physical healing that one can get, to your pet being your best friend. What can be better than that?
Want to Get a Pet?
• Wanderers Rest Humane Association, Canastota: 315-697-2796
• Anita’s Stevens Swan Humane Society, Utica: 315-738-4357.
• Humane Society of Rome, Rome: 315-336-7070.
• Herkimer County Humane Society, Mohawk: 315-866-3255.
David L. Podos is a regular contributor to In Good Health. He lives in Utica.