By Stacie Greene, Supply Chain Specialist at PetSafe
There are tons of research out there about how having a pet helps you live longer. I don’t dispute this research at all, nor do I dispute that if you are an active person having an active pet helps keep you motivated.
Stacie says Cooper hasn't only enhanced her life, but she's improved her health.
I refuse to make any projections on my longevity, and I am not nearly as active as I should be. However, I can attest to the fact that having Cooper in my life has improved my health over the past year! In 2010, I was sick constantly. I fought either a cold, the flu or a sinus infection every other month. I was starting to think some kind of super bug had infested my work space and home. I looked and felt exhausted all the time.
Cooper came into my life on January 29, 2011 and, since then, I have only had one cold. With the exception of adopting my new best friend, I have made no drastic life changes. I know I should exercise more, and I know I should have a better diet. Alas, I don’t. I give Cooper full credit for my much improved health. Having Cooper in my life forces me to seek more balance, and I am happy about it! He is as cute as a button, and his big brown eyes and wagging tail can be very persuasive.
Therefore, his playtime demands are met immediately. And, when Cooper plays, I play! We play at least 2 hours daily. I also laugh more because he is just so goofy. He helps keep my blood pressure in check, because he offers a pleasant distraction from any issue that stresses me out. Although I was without a dog for a little over a year before I adopted Cooper, I don’t think I realized how lonely I actually was.
My house was very empty and far too quiet. But now, it is full of toys, beds, brushes…and JOY. The loneliness that had crept into my life is gone. It disappeared the moment Cooper walked through the door. With or without scientific research, I know loneliness affects our health. I don’t have any hard medical evidence that supports the fact that I am healthier with Cooper in my life, but I can honestly say that I feel better each and every day. I know that I am happier. I know that my life is more balanced. I know that I owe this all to Cooper.
Although it’s not a bad idea to take up running, hiking, or mountain climbing to improve your health, another simple answer is to get a dog! You will be more active just by meeting their daily needs, potty breaks and playtime. Look for a breed that fits your lifestyle and be realistic about what level of activity you are comfortable with. Then, take the plunge. You will never feel better or happier. I am living proof of that!
What do you think about Cooper keeping the doctor away? How does your pet help you feel better?
ABOUT STACIE Stacie Greene is a Supply Chain Specialist for PetSafe, head quartered in Knoxville, TN. She works to manage part of a global supply chain to deliver the best possible products for our customers. She has a BS in Operations Management, and 14 years experience in procurement, supply chain management and strategic sourcing. Her Lhasa apso, Cooper, logs the same hours at the office as Stacie. She volunteers with the Most Pet Friendly Community initiative that has a mission of making Knoxville, Tennessee the most pet friendly community in America.
