Southside Animal Shelter

Been emotional lately? Pets can be healers. Pets are good for our emotional and physical health. Caring for a companion animal can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment and lessen feelings of loneliness and isolation in all age groups. It's well known that relaxed, happy people do not become ill as often as those who suffer from stress and depression. Animal companionship also helps lower a person's blood pressure and cholesterol levels. And studies show that having a dog increases survival rates in groups of patients who have suffered cardiac arrest. Dog walking, pet grooming, and even petting provide increased physical activity that strengthens the heart, improves blood circulation, and shows the loss of bone tissue. Put simply, pets aren't just good friends, they are good medicine. According to a 2008 survey by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, 63% of American households include pets. These animals don't ask for much - - just food, shelter, veterinary care and, of course, our companionship.