Pets save lives. We have all heard about cats and dogs who wake their families to warn them of danger. Some domestic pet animals are true professionals in the business of making life easier for people. Guide dogs help and protect their blind masters, seizure dogs warn and assist persons who suffer from various seizure disorders, and dogs fetch, carry and pull for people in wheelchairs. There are also search and rescue dogs working in earthquake and disaster areas. But these are not the only ways that animals save or improve lives.

Statistically, a person who has had a heart attack has a 500% better chance of survival if the home to which he or she returns has a pet. This does not mean a lonely dog tied up in the backyard or a pair of outdoor cats. It means a cat or dog or other pet in your home, near you so that you can benefit from the unconditional and nonjudgmental love a pet gives.

Pet animals, especially cats and dogs, fill the void of loneliness by being good companions. They also give a sense of security and a reason to live. They give us their love, and without love we are all in danger of depression. Pets also amuse us (humor is a valuable healing tool, too), and some pets, notably dogs, encourage us to exercise all year round and in all weather. They help us to make new friends and lead to an improvement in our social lives.

The presence of a pet eases stress and anxiety. Blood pressure has been scientifically shown to go down during interaction with a pet. This is good news for those suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure or stress.

When we share our home with a pet, we feel loved, wanted and worthwhile. They make us feel so by loving us. They make us want to live so that we can care for them. This helps the healing process by making us cooperate in our medical treatment so that we will be able to return to our companion animals as soon as possible.

Animal programs in hospitals have been very successful, despite some fears about lack of hygiene. Friendly animal visitors give a stimulus to the desire to recover. In nursing homes pets raise self-esteem, encourage residents to move around and be more receptive to treatment. Even persons suffering from Alzheimer's disease benefit from playing with a friendly dog or cat. All states allow pets to visit nursing homes.

Some physicians and dentists are finding that the presence of a pet will settle and reassure young patients - and some not-so-young ones, too.

Find a good pet companion. Take him or her into your home, welcome them into your heart. You will never regret the time, care and caring. Your friend will love you and be faithful to you and your health and whole life will improve in every way.

Much has been written on the healing power of pets, visit http://seniors-site.com/petsm/needpets.html the Seniors-Site website for more information on the subject.