The human-pet bond is truly remarkable. Pets make us laugh and they make us feel loved. Animals can brighten your life and provide enduring friendship and emotional support.

Humans and animals can form a bond that’s essential to the health and well-being of both. Studies show pet ownership can help prevent heart disease. Many healthcare organizations have therapy dogs brought in regularly to visit with patients.

Companionship is one of the main reasons people get pets. Beyond that, caring for an animal gives us purpose and can provide numerous health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and easing stress.

In Episode 69, Dr. G and his guests, veterinarian Jeni Waeltz, DVM, CPC, and Cynthia Brooks, administrator of Animal-Assisted Therapy at Edward-Elmhurst Health, discuss the ways pets can improve our mental and physical health.

Guests:

Jeni Waeltz, DVM, CPC – Owner, veterinarian and coach at The Welcome Waggin.

Cynthia Brooks – Program administrator of Animal-Assisted Therapy at Edward-Elmhurst Health; Supervisor of volunteer services at Edward Hospital and Linden Oaks Behavioral Health.

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