Article featured on March 2010 edition of Shape magazine.
"The next time you're wiped out with a migraine or back pain, find a furry friend. According to a study from Loyola Health Systems in Chicago, surgery patients who received weekly pet therapy - visits from obedience-trained dogs-required 50 percent less pain medication than those who didn't.
Playing with an animal provides a distraction, says researcher Julia Havey, R.N., who notes that cats provide a similar benefit.
It can also ease stress, which helps boost immunity. If you have an illness - or you'd like to volunteer with your pet - ask your hospital about a pet therapy program. Live in a pet-free building?
Consider an aquarium: Research shows that fish also have a calming effect."
Learn more about pet therapy at deltasociety.org
