Pets and Pain

Pets can be very therapeutic. It's a proven fact that certain animals can have a calming effect on people. They can be affectionate toward the lonely and comforting toward the hurting. Animals can bring life to a home that might otherwise be too quiet and empty. Pets can sense when you don't feel well and they can tell when you are sad or upset. Pets can be very entertaining. They can help to distract you from your pain sometimes.

I have two cats. They are like my "babies" (Smile) They can be mischievous sometimes and drive me up a wall with their bad habits, but I wouldn't trade them! The love they show me when I don't feel well means so much.

On my pain management and migraine message boards folks talk about their pets. We share a lot of laughs between us about the neat and funny things they do. Some have cats and others have puppies--I enjoy hearing about them all.

For those who are unable to have pets of their own, you might consider "adopting" a friend's pet! Visit the pet when you visit your friend. Get to know the pet so it recognizes you. Maybe you can pet-sit when your friend needs to be away. It can be very rewarding and it can help you feel better in many ways.

Do you have a special pet or two in your life? I would love to hear about them! Post a comment or join us on my Pain Management and/or Migraine message boards here on WebMD. I look forward to hearing how your little furry friends help you get through the rough times in life!

Related Topics: Video: See Spot, Feel Happy, The Pet Prescription: Is it for You?

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