The Power of Pawsitive Thinking Part 3
The common sense approach to pet ownership
People have interacted with companion  animals since the beginning of history, and that interaction may  belong as much to the realm of common sense as to science.

If a  pet adds joy to your life and makes you feel better or more secure  in your home, or provides entertainment and structure, you hardly  need scientific proof of the benefits. You just intrincically know it is ading to your quality of life, and of course, you are doing the same for a pet, especially if you get a rescue animal.

If you’re thinking of getting a pet, remember the downsides to pet ownership. Dogs and cats can be  expensive—and limiting. You have to provide for their care  when you’re away from home. They cause wear and tear on your  clothing and furnishings, shed hair, and make messes you have to clean up. A barking dog may alienate your neighbors. Some people  are allergic to animal dander.

A dog must be socialized—that  is, carefully trained in order to be a good pet. If infants or  small children are part of the household, their relationship with  a pet has to be supervised. It’s never a one-way street.

And pets are not a panacea—as Dr. Friedman notes, they won’t  cure cancer or heart disease. But for many people, the right pet  is a real plus, well worth any trouble and expense you have to go to, compared to all the love and affection and fun they bring to your world.

So by all means consider adopting a pet for health and happiness, but remember, you need to make sure it is the health and happiness of your pet that is catered for first and foremost.

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