Adopt a dog, stay medically fit

They are cuddly, cutesy and furry but that's not about it. More than just friends, dogs can be your medical guardians too. Dog ownership can assure you a healthy living sans the dreadful pills. And yes, more than often they take on the role of teachers too. Pets double up as friends and add novelty to your life. Here's how: Pets chase loneliness away Pet companionship has therapeutic value. When everything seems to fail, there is chaos and distress everywhere, a tight hug or an emotional release with your pet heals you in no time. When a bad fight with a friend, an unexpected tiff with your lover or a verbal brawl with parents unsettles you, a pet comes to your rescue. Shubhankar Paul, a media professional, says "In times of gloom and disturbance, a gentle caress of my dog washes off all my worries. It strengthens me to face situations with confidence." When you bid goodbye to your pet in the morning before leaving for work, you are well aware that somebody would be waiting to greet you at the door once you return after a hard day's work. The unconditional love that a dog gives you transcends all definitions of love that in human relations is governed by 'terms and conditions apply'. Heart condition? Bring home a pet Allopathy may disappoint you but pet therapy works wonders and is medically approved. Dr. Stephen Sinatra, cardiologist and nutritionist in his book Heart Sense for Women says for heart disease patients, grief and loneliness can be debilitating. According to the study by Sinatra, heart patients who own pets have a higher survival rate than the ones who don't. Moreover, pets help in reducing blood pressure and stress. If you have an ailing elderly person at your residence without adequate company, a pet is an apt solution. Be assured of positive results with pet companionship. No medical bills and absolutely free of side-effects! Psychological security We are often put out by unnecessary judgmental behaviour of others. But a pet never imposes moral dictates on you. He listens silently and responds with adorable gestures that calm you down. Connecticut psychologist Herbert Nieburg, author of Pet Loss: A Thoughtful Guide for Adults and Children confirms that "pet ownership is psychologically beneficial". Pets offer you comfort without asking for anything in return. Avers Srishty Chaudhary, a media professional and owner of two Pomeranian dogs, "It is like writing a diary entry where you can pour your heart out without the fear of being reprimanded or jeered at. Whenever my mother scolded me, my dog would cast an angry stare at her only to prove his allegiance towards me. And I would feel so secure." With pets come responsibility Pets are popular across age groups. Research shows that married couples who are without kids often prefer to adopt a pet to cultivate a sense of responsibility in the process of nurturing their pet. Children and the elderly are among others who bask in the company of a pet, preferably a dog. Dr. Rima Sehgal, psychologist and counsellor says that "a pet in the house exudes a healthy atmosphere and makes you learn the nuances of nurturing and responsible behaviour." Pets are a blessing for kids with working parents and no siblings. Inanimate toys can never substitute a living, receptive and responsive companion. Pets are a vibrant company therefore. Learning tolerance Besides making you more responsible, a pet has a sobering effect on you. It's a beautiful feeling to share with your dog, from food to love of your family members, not to mention, giving in readily to its attention-seeking antics. An impatient self is healed in a pet's company. With them you laugh, learn and love. Bring home a pet and discover the joys for yourself.