Close Encounters

“New studies suggest that cute images stimulate the same pleasure centers of the brain aroused by sex, a good meal or psychoactive drugs like cocaine…” ~The New York Times

Are you looking for a new pet? Please do your research first, then consider adopting a homeless animal from your local shelter or rescue organization. Alternatively, seek a reputable breeder who aims to improve the quality standards of their selected breed or species.

Please spay and neuter your pets: Everyday in the United States, roughly 70,000 puppies and kittens are born while only 11,000 people are born. It's simple math - there just aren’t enough homes for all of these animals. Consequently, every year 10-12 million animals are euthanized in shelters for lack of available homes. Need spay/neuter assistance? Try (800)-248-SPAY or (800)-321-PETS (source: PetRescue.Com).

The simplicity of the human-animal bond is what makes it so endearing, particularly today in our complex world. Feed them, treat them kindly, clearly define expectations, and they become a friend for life who will never criticize and who will love unquestioningly. Read More: Our Connection To Pets Does Far More Than We Imagine

The owners and contributors of this site are not suggesting or implying that anyone should discontinue medically prescribed treatment nor substitute a pet for Prozac (or any other prescription). The contents of this blog are provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice.

Remarkably, anyone can experience health benefits from companion animals. Recovery from any illness is hastened, blood pressure reduced, will to live increased, immunity enhanced, and mental balance strengthened. Even watching fish in an aquarium can decrease heart rate, blood pressure, and anxiety. Heart attack fatalities are 30% greater in a given population for those who do not have a pet as opposed to those who do. For just this one disease, pet companionship could mean about 30,000 lives saved each year. ~ Read more by Dr. Wysong

“Got a stressful event coming up, like an unpleasant dental procedure or a tough meeting at work? Watch a few minutes of a wildlife show before heading out of the house. After 10 minutes, you’ll not only have reduced your heart rate and blood pressure, but you’ll also have created a buffer against the physical effects of your upcoming nail-biter.”
~Real Age