Nice Weather, Longer Days, It's a Great Time to Spend More Hours with Your Dog.

A 1998 Gallop survey found that 3 out of 4 dog owners consider their pets to be part of the family. So it stands to reason, enjoying leisure time with the furry member of your family is just what the doctor ordered, especially if you have high blood pressure, increase blood fat or elevated cholesterol levels. An Australian study reported in Barron's, showed that people with pets had lower values in these categories that those who did not.

But how to find that extra time for your pet.

Go on a trip even it is only to the local pet store . Many stores welcome non-human shoppers.

Is your pet good with people? Volunteer as team for pet assisted therapy programs at your local hospital.

It may be as simple as going for a walk or throwing a ball for that pooch of yours. But if the extra attention results in some aches and pains, see your veterinarian. It may be signs of osteoarthritis. There are medications that can help . Take care of each other because it is "Your Pet...Health Matters."