: ee A GROWING number of scientists are proving what most pet owners have known for years. Owning a pet fas both physical and psychologicai benefits. Calories should be reduced ‘DON’T PUT your pet on a senior food or a light diet just because he or she is at a certain age. Diets formulated with the older pet in mind frequently contain fewer calories, 18% protein and 4% to 6% fibre. Animals who will benefit from a diet with these characteristics are those with increased weight gain due to a decline in activity, and those who suffer from frequent constipation. The most frequent change in the aging pet is the slowing of the metabolic rate which lowers the animal’s energy requirement. An animal who requires less energy but continues to eat at the same rate of energy intake, stores surplus energy as fat and becomes overweight. This obesity imposes an extra Strain on the heart or on aged bones and joints. In this case, it would be helpful to feed the animal either less food or a food that contains a reduced amount of energy per unit of weight. . Likewise, the need for dietary protein may deciine because of a change in activity, a slow-down of metabolic activity and a diminish- ed ability on the part of the kidneys to deal with the waste products of protein digestion. * Such an animal would benefit from a decrease in total protein intake. The gastrointestinal tract loses. tone with increasing age so the stimulative effects of added fibre may also be useful. Saturday 8:00am to 4:00 pm 985-3232 It must be emphasized that diets with the above characteristics may not be appropriate for an older pet who is sill very active. Likewise, special conditions which are present in your pet may require a special diet. In 1989 the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association ({CVMA) introduced standards for diets intended for older animals. The diet should contain no fess than 18% protein of high quality and 5% fat. The energy level of the diet should maintain the normal weight of the animal. Products that meet these standards have the CVMA certification seal on them. Feed your pet according to its individual state and rate of activi- ty. This can best be obtained by first consulting your veterinarian and reviewing your pet’s individu- al health and nutrient require- ments. Pet ownership known to improve OWNING A pet can mental and physical health. For centuries, people have kept and formed bonds with animals of all shapes and sizes. And now, research indicates that human-animal bonding can reduce stress and anxiety, improve your cardiovascular health and much more. It seems logical that pets might encourage people to exercise more regularly and eat better, and now international researchers are offer- ing scientific proof of this and other positive effects of pet own- ership. Anyone who has ever owned a pet knows they can be a positive addition to family Hfe. Now science is beginning to explain why — pets can diffuse tension and help children learn about give-and-take relationships. In fact, a recent study shows that children who have had pets are more able to read facial ex- pressions and body language. Internationally recognized research supports the positive ef- fects of the human-animal bond on human health and well-being. The mere presence of animals can have a positive effect on humans. In one study, the presence of the researcher’s dog reduced the anxiety levels of the participants. Another study showed partici- pants cards depicting natural scenes with and without animals. The scenes with animals were perceived to be happier, less threatening and more friendly. Although research shows that everyone is not affected equally by the human-animal bond (people who view pets more positively will receive more positive effects), new information continues to support the idea that everyone can benefit from owning a pet or simply spending time with one. There are rea! physical benefits to pet ownership too,and a strong bond with a pet can actually im- prove health and reduce chances of serious illness. Research - shows this unique reiationsnip can reduce an owner’s blood pressure, fat in the blood, and anxiety, decreasing chances of improve elinesNow!” r mug featuring the most wanted cats in the West Is sure to be don your MOST WANTED | YES! Please send me wust: $9.95 x ilst too! e White mug ° ted, full color Hiustration - ¢ BIG 12 oz. capacity e Easy-to-grip handle Dishwasher-safe ° Attractively gift boxed Don’t wait for these characters to “leave town.” ORDER YOURS TODAY! “Fugitive Felines” Mug(s) + 6% PST. & 7% GST, “0392 | Piease add $3.00 S & H. Total enclosed: $____ | Send your name, address & cheque to: The CAT AFFAIR | Cotlectables, Box 158, Suite #106, 1656 Martin Dr., | White Rock, 8.C. V4A 6E7. (604) 535-7298 coronary disease. Also, pet owners have quicker recovery rates from hospital than people who do not own pets. On the psychological side, pets can have a positive effect on peo- ples’ moods and perceptions of Situations. They can have a calm- ing influence on their owners and can improve owners’ self-esteem. New pet owners have reported an increase in their sense of secu- rity. Researchers are also discover- ing that pet owners are more responsible, more dependable, less egotistical and less self-centered. American researchers cite in- creasing evidence that animals provide companionship for peo- ple, and reduce depression and loneliness. For some people, own- ing a pet will even reduce the ef- fects of traumatic events such as bereavement. A British researcher has found that animals can even improve pet both your health and well-being owners’ social interaction and relationships in general. The therapeutic effects of the human-animal bond, particularly with the elderly and handicapped, has been well documented. When pets are introduced into the lives of elderly people, the people eat more regularly, exercise more and are less depressed. This practical application of the beneficial effects cf the human- animal bond is not new. For ex- ample, a home for epileptics in Germany has used animals as part of its patient therapy since 1867. Interest in the human-animal bonding phenomenon is growing. In 1987, the Human-Animal Bond Association of Canada (HABAC) was formed to investigate and promote this special relationship. Its members are people who care about pets, from pet care profes- sionals to dedicated animal lovers. 00,06 s* PET GR@&SMER CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL GROOMER -flea baths © ears ¢ nails © glands ° clipping For appointment contact =._Janine Cyoss 985-3584 WULY | | SUNSEED PRODUCTS G FOR BIRDS 46 0. | Pet Habitat | Lynn Vatey CenrRe 986-48. 12