I was about to write something else this morning, and then I got a phone call. The call was actually from my insurance company regarding my nursing aide. While on the phone with her she was listening to my dogs bark and started asking me questions.  What kind of dogs are they? How old are they? And then she went on to say how she would love to have a dog. Anybody that knows me, knows that my dogs are anything and everything to me. They are my companions, my friends, my kids and my unconditional joy each day.  I honestly spent 85% of my time at home now because of my multiple sclerosis. It’s just the way life is and I really am not complaining about it. My dogs just bring me joy every single day being with them.  It makes dealing with my illness  and the seclusion of my illness all that more bearable. Dogs bring such unconditional love, joy and warmth.

It’s well-known (and scientifically proven) that interaction with a gentle, friendly pet has significant benefits for both physical and mental health.http://www.pawsforpeople.org/who-we-are/benefits-of-pet-therapy/

For Physical Health
lowers blood pressure
improves cardiovascular health
releases endorphins (oxytocin) that have a calming effect
diminishes overall physical pain
the act of petting produces an automatic relaxation response, reducing the amount of medication some folks need

For Mental Health
lifts spirits and lessens depression
decreases feelings of isolation and alienation
encourages communication
provides comfort
increases socialization and sense of community
reduces boredom
decreases anxiety
helps children overcome speech and emotional disorders
creates motivation for the client to recover faster
reduces loneliness

Marshy and Zoey bring every benefit listed and more. They are my daily form of instant therapy ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️