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18 - The Oakville Beaver, Friday June 20, 2008 www.oakvillebeaver.com Hug your pet and reap benefits of animal magnetism By Kelly Clark, GRADE 11, THOMAS A. BLAKELOCK I n days past, animals were largely used for utilitarian purposes. Horses pulled carts, dogs protected the farm, and cats were pest control. However, over the past 100 years, pets have become more central to human life. The bond between humans and their pets has grown. Animals possess traits such as loyalty, friendliness and playfulness, which humans find desirable. Nowadays people consider their pets part of the family, while some even refer to them as their children. With all the methods of modern communication such as email, cell phones and more, pet owners are seeing the value of the wordless communication between themselves and their pets. Another reason humans enjoy the company of pets is that most have the ability to figure out what we're thinking just by our body language. Pets help draw out the kindest impulses of humanity. They also assist us in unlocking a deeper part of ourselves, a part that is more compassionate, less arrogant, and less hurried. As well as owning pets, there is a popular new trend that's sweeping retirement homes everywhere. There are now live-in, and visitor pets in these residences. Pets either live in the facility, or a community group brings in animals weekly to interact with the residents. This has been proven to be an effective method of therapy for many seniors as the love from animals can reduce the length of recovery time from illness, and surgery. The bond between humans and pets is not only an emotional bond, but it also physiological. Studies have shown pets enhance quality of family life, by minimizing tension between family members, and encouraging compassion for living things. As well as being great companions, pets offer health benefits. It has been proven animals have the ability to lower blood pressure better than medication as they have the power to induce relaxation and reduce stress, as well as anxiety. Scientists believe this is because pets don't judge us, they only love. It has also been proven that when you pet your animal, not only does your heart rate slow, but the animal's does as well, which indicates a true mutual human-animal bond. Pets give us an amazing emotional boost, as well as aiding with many positive physiological factors. So have a good cuddle with your furry friend, and strengthen the bond the two of you already share. Think Green. Breathe Easy. HUGE CENTRAL AIR & FURNACE $ Up to 3450* MANUFACTURERS CASH BACK SALE BEST PRICES EVER! Cash Back AND NO PAYMENT! NO INTEREST! FOR 6 MONTHS *OAC HYDRO CASH BACK UP TO UP TO UP TO $1400 + $1500 + $550 GOV. CASH BACK *Call for details. Financing Available 8 Locations To Serve You Better! 905-849-4998 www.aireone.com 1-888-827-2665 Working together to drive change Help CAA South Central Ontario plant trees... lots of trees! HOW? Bring this ad in to your local store. Show your membership card and you will receive one free package of seeds and CAA SCO will donate $1 to Tree Canada. It's THAT easy! Visit your local CAA Store on Wednesday June 25, 2008 for CAA Member Appreciation Day! We want to thank you for your continued support. Enjoy refreshments, great savings on merchandise and free giveaways*. Plus, enter to WIN a Grand Prize Trip for 2! To find your closest CAA Store or for more information CALL 1-800-992-8143 CLICK www.caasco.com/autogreen *While quantities last. ®CAA and CAA logo trademarks owned by and use is granted by the Canadian Automobile Association.