Pets are a large part of our daily life. Pets can provide relief from stress, companionship, and an opportunity to get some exercise and socialization. Pets also can have a beneficial effect on our health in other ways.
A study at the State University of Buffalo showed that people with high blood pressure who adopted a dog had lower blood pressure readings in stressful situations than those without a dog. In another study of hypertensive stockbrokers, those who got cats or dogs were found to have lower blood pressure than whose who didn’t.
A study in Australia found that pet owners also have lower cholesterol levels than people without pets.
The National Institute of Health found that people who have pets go to the doctors less than people without pets.
Studies have shown that heart patients who own pets have a better change of long-term survival than patients without pets.
Another study found that men with AIDS were less likely to suffer from depression if they owned a pet.
For older adults, pets help to alleviate stress, depression, and loneliness. Studies have shown that seniors who have a pet go to the doctors less often
Pets are increasingly seen in hospitals, hospices, and nursing homes. Why? Because dogs have a calming effect on people who are ill or old.
At the office of Law Office of Scott C. Soady, A Professional Corporation, we often are asked by clients how they can provide for their pet upon their death or incapacity. Planning for your pet can be done by adding provisions in your trust to leave not only a pet you have at death but also a sum of money to maintain the pet. We can also prepare a pet trust which is enforceable now in California. Our article about estate planning for pets provides more information about your options.