Animal Companions and Their People Blog

In a world as chaotic, violent, tumultuous, and destructive as ours, with both man-made as well as natural disasters rampant, with minimal contact between humans and the natural world, our animal companions have assumed significance far beyond most people’s comprehension. Our relationship with and appreciation and respect for domesticated animals such as dogs and cats have deepened, and many of us have come to regard our “pets” as beloved family members rather than chattel or beings simply to be used for our convenience or designed to assist us in our work.

We, as humans, have lost virtually all contact with the natural world and the healing, revitalizing, replenishing aspects of nature. Throughout the ages, we have always been a part of an agrarian society which deeply and, of necessity, appreciated the seasons and the power, beauty, bounty and perils of Mother Nature. Today, unfortunately, we underestimate and undervalue the significance of nature in our lives, much to our detriment. We simply have lost our understanding and awareness as to how vitally important – how integral- to our lives (physically, emotionally and spiritually) the world of nature is.

We have lost touch with the profound beauty and the many gifts which nature provides us. We grow increasingly ignorant of and nonchalant about the essential role that nature plays in our mental, physical, emotional and spiritual lives.. We have lost much of our spiritual essence and foundation as we diminish or even dismiss the importance of and relevance of nature and the natural world to our lives. Instead, we have embraced man-made accomplishments and technological achievements.

There has been an enormous amount of evidence based upon numerous scientific studies which substantiate the importance of nature and natural beauty in our lives. There are many reasons that we find peace, serenity and solace in our mountains, oceans, rivers and forests. There are many reasons that we derive pleasure, comfort and support from our animal companions.

There is significant scientific evidence, which supports the emotional and physiological benefits and the healing powers of our animal companions they lower our blood pressure, decrease our heart rate, and decrease anxiety, depression, sadness anger, fear and stress. Their presence has a calming and soothing effect upon us. Odendaal’s study of 2000 measured significant changes in blood plasma levels of various neurochemicals after subjects engaged in a 30-minute positive interaction wit an unfamiliar dog. Neurochemicals associated with a decrease in blood pressure increased; in humans and dogs, endorphin, oxytocin, prolactin, phenylectic acid, and dopamine increased significantly. Cortisol, a hormone associated with increased stress levels, decreased significantly in humans.

A 2007 study by Cole, Gawlinski, Steers & Kotlerman found that visits with a therapy dog improved cardiopulmonary pressures, neurohormone levels, and anxiety in patients hospitalized with heart failure. Human heart failure patients had one 12 minute visit with a therapy dog – lower anxiety, epinephrine stress hormone dropped, blood pressure dropped.

In 2002 Wu, Niedra, Pendergast & McCrindle evaluated the effectiveness of a dog visitation program in helping 30 children and their families adjust to hospitalization on a pediatric cardiology ward. From their analysis of all the data, the researchers concluded that the dog visits relieved stress, normalized the hospital milieu, and improved patient and parent morale.

Richeson 2003 described how the nondirective presence of a therapy dog decreased agitation and increased positive social behaviors in older patients with dementia.

According to Dr Cynthia K. Chandler, a Professor of Counseling and Director of Animal Assisted Therapy at the University of North Texas, ‘Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) in counseling is the incorporation of pets as therapeutic agents into the counseling process. The therapy animal works in partnership with a human therapist to provide compassionate and stimulating therapy designed to facilitate human client recovery.’ AAT utilizes the special relationship between people and their pets to provide services for persons in need. AAT utilizes the human and animal bond to model and facilitate appropriate and nurturing relationships.’

The emotional, physical and spiritual benefits of animal companionship are incalculable. In the impersonal and highly technologically oriented world in which we live, animal companionship provides us with a link to the world of nature, beauty and the Source of all Creation.

Dog Behavior Specialist, Dr. Diane Pomerance

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All those who have grieved and mourned the loss of a beloved animal companion wish that our dearest and most devoted friends could have lived longer. It is a fact that generally we, as human beings, outlive our pets, and so, we must learn to become accustomed to coping with and recovering from grief over their loss. We can never take time or any life for granted. However, there are various ways that we can increase the likelihood of our pets living long, happy and healthy lives. Here are my top ten tips to help you extend your pet’s life.

1). Have your pet examined at least once a year (if not more) by a veterinarian. A wellness exam is an important component in keeping your pet healthy and discovering any potentially dangerous health issues your pet may have.

2) Have your pet spayed or neutered. Neutering eliminates the possibility of testicular cancer and decreases the chance of developing prostate disease. Spaying your female pet decreases her chances of developing ovarian or uterine cancer. Spay/neuter also diminish your pet’s desire to run away or roam. Pet overpopulation is a huge problem not only in this country but also throughout the world. Too many unwanted animals are born and, thus far too many innocent animals suffer and are euthanised every year.

3). Make sure your pet receives his annual vaccinations including: Rabies, DHPP, Bordatella, Lepto as well as heartworm and fecal tests. These are critically important preventive and lifesaving measures for your pet.

4). Keep your pet clean. Good hygiene including dental hygiene is imperative for his good health. A lack of oral hygiene can result in oral disease, gingivitis and periodontal disease which can be linked to heart, lung and kidney disease.

5). Keep your pet on monthly heartworm preventive as well as a regular flea and tick prevention program.

6). Feed your pet age appropriate nutritious food regularly. Consult your vet as to the food best suited for your pet’s overall health and well-being. Do not overfeed or underfeed your pet.

7). Make sure that your pet always has fresh, clean water.

8). Exercise your pet regularly.

9). Interact with your pet frequently and as often as possible. They love to please us and
require attention and affection. Don’t let your pet be a “latchkey” pet – alone, bored and frustrated.

10. Love, respect and appreciate your pet. These are really the most fundamental requirements of pet parenthood. Do so, and he will repay you a million fold with his love, loyalty and devotion.

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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Of my twenty-two dogs, all are loving, loyal and devoted to my husband and me. There isn’t an aloof, detached, unfriendly or undemonstrative one among them. Their tails wag enthusiastically at the mere sight of us, and they lick and hug us profusely. They are always happy to see us and are overjoyed to spend time with us each and everyday. They love to go for their walks and can’t contain their excitement when they know a ride in the car is imminent. When we take the time and make the effort to play with them, they can hardly control their exuberance.

We, who love our animal companions, do not take for granted their unconditional love, but rather embrace them as they embrace us. Many of us regard our animal companions not only as our best and most trusted and valued friends, but also as be-loved family members. There are countless stories about dogs who save humans from tragedy or even death - a Rottweiller leaping into a burning apartment to save an infant; a German Shepherd saving a woman choking on a piece of fruit; a Labrador Retriever dog plunging into a swiftly flowing river to pluck out a drowning child. Many people who have been rescued from dangerous or deadly situations regard their dogs as “guardian angels.” And, perhaps, they are indeed. Who am I to determine their role or purpose? However, I can certainly personally attest to their healing powers and their seemingly “divine” intervention”, or shall I say, “contribution” to human lives. I have witnessed their abilities firsthand many, many times throughout my life.

One of the most joyous and fulfilling activities in which I have participated is to train and have some of my dogs classified as Canine Good Citizens through the AKC (American Kennel Club) and then, after further training, to have them certified as “Assisted Animal Therapy dogs. They are thus able to accompany me to various hospitals, assisted living centers, hospice care facilities, schools and recreation centers where they bring joy and healing to patients, residents and students and to both children and adults alike. They bring peace, unconditional love and comfort to those in need. They often work with people with special needs such as cerebral palsy, Down’s Syndrome, epilepsy, autism, and so on.

These dogs are devoted to me and to serving those in need. They do not seem to “see” wheelchairs, walkers, IV’s or other medical apparatus. They appear “at home” and at ease with those who are ill or disabled. Depending upon the frequency of visits they make, they truly come to know and love those they serve. They perform “tricks” for and play with them. They enjoy being petted and held. They bring fun, laughter and friendship to so many who suffer and are lonely. They forge a unique bond with them. They are “real” and “genuine” and nonjudgmental. Those they visit seem to lose their embarrassment or self-consciousness during their time with our therapy dogs. For at least a short while, they forget their pain and commune with a creature that is loving and empathetic. These dogs are “all heart” and pure love. I am so grateful to be with them as they bring grace and dignity to those who have been displaced and too often simply forgotten.

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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As we enter the season of rebirth and renewal, and as we leave our winter doldrums (along with our cold weather hats, coats and gloves) behind us, we welcome and embrace the mild and comfortable weather, the foliage in bloom and a seemingly kinder and gentler world. We spend more time outdoors and soak up the rays of the sun. We feel refreshed, revitalized, invigorated. What better time is there to adopt a loving, doting canine friend and companion with whom we can share the joys of the season?

There are many reasons to adopt this spring:

1). It is the perfect time of year to spend quality time outside with your dog.

2). The temperatures are mild and moderate making it easy to housetrain your pet and take him out for frequent potty trips.

3). The days are longer and permit more outdoor time to exercise your dog – and to take him for more and longer walks.

4). The temperatures are cool enough so that you can take your pet for rides in the car-
without worrying about him being exposed to excessive heat or cold. Most dogs love their rides!

5). You can spend time socializing your pet at dog parks and greeting and meeting with your human and canine friends in the neighborhood.

6). It is easier to obedience train your dog – teaching him to “heel”, “come”, “sit”, “stay”,
etc., this time of year – and even teach him agility. You can jog or run with your best friend.

7). You can enjoy dining with your canine buddy at outdoor cafes or restaurants (find
out which places permit dogs first!)

8). You can play “fetch, “catch”, ‘Frisbee” and other games with your dog without getting him overheated.

9). You and your dog can take comfortable walks in the park, woods, or country.

even and your canine friend can enjoy the wonderful scents of the flowers and shrubs in bloom.

Best of all, you can appreciate nature and share the joy and beauty of the loveliest time of the year together! There is no finer companion than your wonderful, loyal, devoted and unconditionally loving dog!!!

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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In light of so many recent natural as well as man made disasters, I am compelled to reflect upon and mourn the lives of so many innocent people and creatures and the harm that has befallen our home, Mother Earth. I is disheartening and deeply saddens me to think of our planet stricken and damaged by massive oil spills; impacted by potential nuclear meltdowns and the life-threatening spread of radiation; the proliferation of nuclear weapons; light and sound pollution posed by the relentless drilling of oil and gas wells; deforestation; the raping and decimation of pristine environments which have served for countless years as habitats for our fellow creatures; the accumulation of greenhouse gases in conjunction with the burning of fossil fuels; the needlessly cruel and unnecessary slaughter of billions of animals for food each year, and so on. How can we fail to recognize the earth as a living, breathing, powerful and yet, simultaneously, fragile organism? How can we not but respect her beauty and bounty? I hope and pray that it is not too late to salvage and restore the earth.

I live on a small, but beautiful parcel of land outside Dallas, Texas. I am blessed and privileged to spend almost some part of every day outdoors in touch with the natural world. We have hundreds of trees and shrubs – currently in bloom. We have a large pond full of turtles, frogs and fish. We also have ducks, geese and blue herons, egrets, cormorants, hawks, road-runners, rabbits, coyotes, snakes and many other magnificent creatures. We also have those animals regarded as “pests” such as gophers, field mice, opossum, skunks and armadillos. We regard them as “gifts” – for their presence increases our awareness and understanding of the purposefulness of each one and the manner in which all living creatures interconnect and relate to one another and the earth.

There is a horse farm behind our property, and nearly everyday I observe the horses and colts frolic and run so joyfully and gracefully. Getting to “know” or at least become very familiar with the animals that live on or visit our property is a privilege and a blessing. All are sentient, playful and beautiful. Each has a unique personality. Each offers special gifts; each one has a purpose for living here alongside of and with us. I am, thankfully, in constant communication and attunement with the natural world – of which we are all apart and from which we are all descended. This communication and attunement leads to a communion with the Creative Force and Power responsible for the existence of all life. It is virtually impossible for me to think of any form of life on earth as purposeless or insignificant.

The time I spend with my twenty-two rescue dogs is truly a gift. They are a further link with the Natural World. These innocents, who have been neglected, abandoned, tortured and abused are forgiving and nonjudgmental. The love unconditionally and are both vulnerable and pure of heart. They live spontaneously “in the moment”, and other than digging in my flower beds on occasion, cause no irrevocable destruction to anyone or to the environment. They bring me great peace, comfort and joy. They are natural “healers”.

How far away is the time that we revered Mother Earth and the Natural World instead of exploiting her gifts, beauties and bounties? Why have we become so negligent, greedy and irresponsible? We have “dominion” over the earth and her creatures – which is, in actuality, “stewardship” or “guardianship” and the obligation to love, respect and appreciate our home and all living creatures.

We must reassess our values and reprioritize them. Our greed for more money, more property, more power along with our ignorance and arrogance can lead to only one outcome – our own demise and the destruction of our planet. We have been warned!
We have witnessed recently and over time the vast power of Mother Earth. The recent crisis in Japan – a 9.0 magnitude earthquake, tsunami and subsequent nuclear disaster –
must surely remind us that Mother Nature can destroy not only people, but also countries, continents and the international economy instantaneously!

We must heed this wake-up call and come to the aid of our ailing planet. We must abolish nuclear weapons – we must focus once again on the beauty, majesty and power of the earth. We must learn to respect her and her creatures - we must make a strong and concerted effort to become wise stewards of our fellow creatures. Now, more than ever, is the time to come to the aid of our peoples and planet…

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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There are so many ways in which dogs enrich our lives emotionally and physically. Here are some examples of how pets can be of particular benefit to seniors. For example, did you know that seniors who have dogs or other animal companions pay fewer visits to the doctor?

- Seniors who have dogs or cats and who require hospitalization tend to stay in the hospital for a shorter duration than those without companion animals.

- Seniors who have pet tend to have a more active social life than those who don’t.

- Seniors who have pets tend to be more physically active and get more exercise than those without them.

- Seniors who have pets experience less depression, loneliness and anxiety than those without them.

- Pets provide seniors with unconditional love, loyalty and devotion.

- Pets fulfill the care giving and nurturing needs of seniors.

- Pets provide seniors with companionship and friendship.

- Pets improve the overall quality and help increase the longevity of seniors.

There are many other gifts our animal companions bring to seniors – comfort, acceptance, nonjudgmentalism, spontaneity, affection and laughter. Many seniors who have outlived their spouses or human friends can derive much joy from the daily presence in their lives of a dog or other animal companion.

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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Making the decision to adopt a dog requires a lifetime of commitment on the part of you and your family. Your dog’s care and lifelong well-being are in your hands. From socialization skills to obedience training, good nutrition and adequate exercise; regular veterinary visits and vaccinations to playtime and interaction with you – the dog is vulnerable and completely dependent upon you for all aspects of his life. His quality of life and happiness depend upon you. Before adopting a pet, think carefully as to whether you are willing and able to make this lifetime commitment and take on this responsibility. Remember, we generally outlive our pets. Like humans, they break bones, require stitches and even develop complex and terminal illnesses and disabilities. They may require medications and medical treatments similar to ours.

Children and dogs are meant to be together. They can become best friends, playmates, companions, siblings and confidants. Their bond is like no other and is both incalculable and unforgettable.

So, after you and your family have determined that you are going to adopt a dog, how do you decide which breed is right for your household? What characteristics, personality and attributes do you want your dog to have? There are certain breeds that are especially compatible and well suited to live in families or homes with children. The following breeds are playful, energetic, loyal, affectionate, protective and intelligent. Any of them would make an excellent dog for kids.

- The Labrador Retriever (Lab) is a wonderful family dog. He is patient, friendly and persevering. He is often exuberant and seemingly tireless and is almost always up for a romp. Playful and affectionate, he is also very smart and trainable.

- The Golden Retriever is confident, intelligent, kind and loyal. He is also extremely patient and affectionate as well as protective. And… He LOVES to play! Both Labrador Retrievers and Goldens are frequently used as service dogs for the blind, deaf or people with other disabilities because of their intelligence, patience, resourcefulness, friendliness, desire to please and gentleness.

- The Poodle is a very family friendly and extremely clever dog. He is gentle and good-natured, great for kids who have allergies and is also patient. He is an excellent playmate for a child.

- The Beagle is a perfect child-friendly dog. Intelligent, alert, friendly and playful, he is not too small and not too large. He is curious, inquisitive, and highly trainable.

- The Collie is a calm, intelligent and tolerant dog that is gentle and trainable. Like his movie ambassador “Lassie”, the collie is loyal, devoted, resilient and resourceful. He makes a wonderful companion.

- The German Shepherd is highly intelligent, friendly, protective and loving. He is very loyal and playful, but, because of his size and cleverness must be socialized and well trained. He is extremely sensitive, clever and resourceful and wants to please and protect his loved ones.

- The Great Dane is a gentle giant that loves children. He is kind, loyal, affectionate and patient. He seeks little more than to be loved by and to please his family.

- The Pug is a small dog that is very loving, affectionate and has a strong sense of family. He loves kids and does well with inexperienced pet owners.

- The Irish Setter is a beautiful dog known for its lovely red coat. He is playful, energetic, and very intelligent and loves being around people and children. He is also easily trainable and requires a lot of exercise.

- The Mixed Breed dog is my own personal favorite. You just can’t beat him! He is generally very intelligent, has great survival instincts, and is well-balanced and friendly. He yearns to please and to find a place in your heart, and he’s so grateful to be adopted into a loving, welcoming family. He usually loves children and is playful and full of life and energy. No doubt, he has faced adversity and even the possibility of death. If you adopt him from an Animal Shelter or Rescue Organization, you are saving a life as well as getting a GREAT family dog!

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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We all know that children and dogs share a very special relationship. Kids forge a unique and powerful bond with their animal companions. They play with them, talk to and laugh with them, walk with them, do their homework with them and even share their strongest feelings and deepest secrets with them. Dogs love children unconditionally and never yell at or punish them for not doing their homework or chores or for not cleaning their bedroom. Kids and dogs - you just can’t beat this winning combination!

Kids learn compassion and responsibility by learning to share life with and feed and care for their pets. They learn to value and appreciate all living creatures. They learn a lot about life itself, getting sick or old, living in the moment, sharing companionship and friendship– and also the care and commitment an animal companion requires and deserves.

When is it appropriate for a child to have a pet? It truly depends on the child’s family situation and his own maturity. As a parent, know that you are ultimately responsible for the care and well-being of your family pet. Children are well-intentioned and may promise that they will take care of the pet on their own. But we, as parents, know, that children are easily distracted and preoccupied with their own responsibilities such as school, extracurricular activities, human friendships and social obligations. They may be very well-intentioned, but lack the maturity to assume full responsibility for another living being.

Before adopting a pet into your family, it is very important to have serious discussions about the obligations and responsibilities associated with pet guardianship or “parenthood”. Your child must thoroughly understand that a pet is a sentient, living creature who may be shorter lived than he, who may get sick and require veterinary care, who depends on humans for his regular food, water, grooming, exercise and overall wellness. He is a vulnerable creature who depends entirely on his human caregivers. You must also decide which type of dog best suits your family’s personality and lifestyle and to whom which responsibilities of the pet’s daily needs will be delegated.

Much thought and deliberation of each family member is required to determine if a pet is appropriate for you. Consider that the pet should be spayed or neutered, receive his vaccinations and regular visits to the vet to make sure he is in good health, have a nutritious and healthy diet, daily exercise and playtime, frequent interaction with his human family, and receive socialization and obedience training. Each member of the family must understand that the pet requires a lifetime commitment to keep him as happy and healthy and comfortable as possible. If you do not have the time, space or budget to provide a healthy life for a pet, please do not adopt one. There are countless homeless animals who have been surrendered to animal welfare organizations and shelters and ultimately euthanised simply because their owners did not take the time to conduct research as to the time, space, activity level and money associated with keeping a pet or consider how much attention, interaction and care an animal companion requires. A pet has the potential of becoming a loving, devoted, loyal, unconditionally loving and beloved family member. If he is neglected, he can become sick, bored and destructive. Whether or not to get a dog for the kids is an extremely important decision. Take the time and make the effort to determine if a pet is in your child’s future!

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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It is my personal opinion that any one of any age can truly benefit from becoming a pet parent. Animal companions greatly enhance and deeply enrich our lives. Dogs have taught me so many life lessons, brought me such fun and laughter, and have been such a healing force in my own life that I can’t imagine life without one. I currently have twenty-two rescue dogs of varying breeds and ages. I have senior dogs, adolescents and puppies. Each has a story to share and a unique personality.

I have six animal assisted therapy dogs that have been certified and who, with their extraordinary ability to heal and unconditionally love humans, are able to visit and improve the quality of life for many patients in hospitals, and those living in assisted living centers, nursing homes and hospice care facilities. I have personally observed the healing power of pets time after time.

If it is an option and desire of a senior citizen to have a pet, I say, by all means, do so. First conduct research regarding the breed that best suits your personality, temperament, lifestyle, activity level, budget and overall quality of life. Of course, you must possess a certain degree of health and well being in to be able to provide the animal with the proper care and exercise a dog requires. You must realistically assess your ability to take on the responsibility of feeding, grooming, exercising and interacting with a pet. If you have any concerns about being able to care for a pet, do you have friends, relatives, neighbors or caregivers who are willing and able to assist you with his care? When researching the kind of dog you feel would best fit into your life, you may also want to consider adopting an older dog rather than a puppy as puppies can be very active, mischievous, rambunctious and require extensive obedience and socialization training. There are certain breeds of dogs that are very well suited to be companions to the elderly. Here are a few of my recommendations.

Miniature or toy poodles are highly intelligent animals that love to be loved. They thoroughly enjoy and appreciate human attention and companionship. They require only a moderate amount of exercise and minimal grooming if there their hair is clipped short. They do not shed and are a great choice for people who suffer from allergies. They are lightweight and easy to lift or transport to the vet, and so on.

Chihuahuas are also great “lap” dogs who truly bond with their guardians and aim to please. They, too, are small and easily lifted and transportable and love being held or sitting in one’s lap. They are also good watchdogs.

Pugs are natural “clowns” who love to entertain and amuse as well as please their owners. They do tend to shed, but, of course, this can be controlled with regular grooming. They are very affectionate.

Malteses tend to be very sweet, loving and docile. They love to be pampered and are easily trained. Although they don’t shed, they do require regular brushing to keep their coats from becoming matted. They are also a good choice for those who have allergies.

Yorkshire Terriers are feisty, fun-loving, highly intelligent dogs that are very affectionate. Like the Maltese, they require brushing and grooming, but they do not shed and are good low-allergy dogs.

Boston terriers are gentle, friendly, playful dogs who have natural guardian instincts. They generally get along well with strangers as well as other pets. They are affectionate and love to be loved.

Pomeranians are very intelligent and resourceful. They are spunky and have a low need for exercise.

Schnauzers are very smart, energetic and feisty. They get along well with people of all ages including children and have happy and outgoing personalities. They require daily brushing and walking.

Shih-Tzu’s are sweet-tempered and extremely friendly. They make wonderful indoor dogs, require very little exercise. A daily walk will usually suffice. They have long hair that must be groomed regularly unless their hair is cut short.

There are many wonderful dogs that would make excellent companions for seniors. Those that I have described are small breeds that because of their size, weight, grooming and exercise needs, make them perfect pets for the elderly. However, having researched the breed of dog you feel is best suited to your personality and lifestyle, follow your heart. You will find the joyful and rich friendship and companionship you desire. Your life will be truly blessed and enriched by adopting the right dog for you!

Dr. Diane Pomerance

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Life can be challenging. – the world around us is chaotic and tumultuous. Friends are fickle – our spouses or significant others (if we even have them!) can prove insincere, unappreciative and downright unromantic. So, what’s a person to do on Valentine’s Day – a day legendary for its glorification of love and romance?

Actually, Valentine’s Day can be one of the loneliest holidays of the year. We, who are not in a romantic relationship, can feel lonely, isolated, insecure and empty inside. We look with dread upon all the glamorous TV commercials and magazine ads exhibiting a perfect, beautiful dewy eyed couple in blissful union.

However, for those of us who are single and have been single for a long time; or for those of us experiencing loneliness due to a break-up, separation, divorce or widowhood, Valentine’s Day can be both painful and isolating. We may experience the emptiness of never feeling truly loved and of never, perhaps, experiencing love or romance again. However, Valentine’s Day need not be a day of fear, dread and gloom.

There is an option, you may not have considered. Why not celebrate Valentine’s Day with your pet? After all, he is loyal, deserving, trustworthy, devoted, honest, and genuine and, above all, unconditionally loving. More likely than not, he is also good-looking. He’s also lovable and doting. All he desires is to love you, please you and to make you happy. Who could ask for anything- or anyone- more?

When Purina surveyed 1,000 American pet owners, they found that 61 percent of them intended to show additional love and affection toward their animal companions on Valentine’s Day. In addition, 43 percent of the male respondents claimed that they preferred to celebrate the holiday with their pet alone. Surprised?

Do not be. Our animal companions are truly our very best friends of all. They have no or pretense; they are genuinely who and what they appear to be. They are nonjudgmental – they really don’t care how we look or what we’re wearing. They see beyond the superficial. Nor are they shallow or mercenary. They are delighted to spend a quiet evening at home with you – they enjoy good food, beautiful music and great movies. They cuddle comfortingly and joyfully beside you and cherish you as few others in the world do.

Do not take this suggestion lightly. You CAN enjoy Valentine’s Day with one you truly love – without worries or regrets. And when the holiday is over, your animal companion will remain faithfully and lovingly by your side… truly a love for all seasons and holidays.