Reader's email-It's great to keep a pet!

The Singapore Zoo has a new programme in aid of raising funds. For $28, you are welcome to get a closeup view (1.5m) of a training session with Omar the White Tiger. It is availble on certain dates in February. Please check out the Singapore Zoo's website at http://www.zoo.com.sg/ for further details. It is a great opportunity to catch this beautiful animal up close. Don't miss this chance! Plus you are also playing a part in the conservation of wildlife as the funds would go to helping endangered animals.

Anyway, while on the topic of animals, I have received an email requesting for more info about pet therapy and its benefits. Here's what a reader had to say:

Dear Naz,

I have a close friend who sometimes feel very sad and lonely. I have been thinking of ways to help him out. I have read some reports that pet therapy can help people life their spirits,especially those suffering from depression. Is this true? How does this work? Could you please let me know if you have any success stories on this type of therapy?

Shermaine, clerk, Singapore



Dear Shermaine,

Yes, pet therapy is gaining popularity from all over the world because people are seeing its amazing healing qualities. Animals are very special; theyprovide a form of socialism for humans. A study done by a hospice has shown that over 90% of people in the nursing home who cared for a pet suffered less physical and emotional pain as compared to those who did not. In another study, heart failure patients who spent 12 minutes with a dog or cat had lower stress hormone levels, lower blood pressure levels, and a general brighter outlook about their recovery. Pet therapy may benefit both patients and caregiving staff in a hospice setting. In one study, the presence of a dog was found to encourage staff-patient interactions, ease patient-visitor relations, and improve staff and patient morale. The preferred interactions with the dog were those that had a relaxing or comforting effect on the human.

So, what is it about the animals that make a difference? Some researchers suggest dogs and other pets have a calming effect on people in every age group. Petting your pet can lower your pulse and blood pressure. One most important fact is that pets give you unconditional love. It does not matter if you are having a bad hair day, have 'panda' eyes or have bad colour coordination, your little furry buddies would come running over to you when you get back from work and school to greet you! Pets help people feel good about themselves. This is why the benefits of pet therapy is so strong.They are true friends! Tell your friend to enjoy caring for his pet!

Naz