Why I Love My Rescue Linus!

“When we adopt a dog or any pet, we know it is going to end with us having to say goodbye, but we still do it- for a very good reason. They bring us so much joy, optimism and happiness. They attack every moment of every day with that attitude.” Bruce Cameron, A Dog’s Purpose

I have always loved dogs. My earliest childhood memory stays with me to this day and involves a promise my parents made to me to buy me a puppy. I was 7 years old and needed eye surgery to fix a lazy eye.

Back in 1956, this involved a hospital stay of a week where I would be separated from my twin (a first) and my parents. It was a devastating, scary prospect and experience, but I thought about the puppy waiting for me at the end of the ordeal. My mom named him Algie after my eye surgeon, Algernon P. Reese. (I told you I remember every last detail). Algie was an adorable English bull dog and my sister and I were crazy about him. My mom refused to put up with his chewing and puppy antics and Algie was gone after two months. I never forgave her for that! Really!

Which brings me to the reason for writing this blog post. As you know, I recently adopted an 8 year old rescue and named him Linus. Let me backtrack. I attended a Yorkie 911 Rescue event (Heidi Walker, the head of the organization is amazing). I had been on their website for a few months researching rescues, and had sort of decided on Booty, a 10 year old full Yorkie, hoping to see him at the event. But one look at Linus (f/k/a Grant) and I was hooked—those warm sweet brown eyes, waggily tail and patchwork fur on his back. I chose him and he chose me.

Some friends were less than enthusiastic about my recent decision. Won’t it tie you down? How will you travel? Why do you want all that responsibility at this age? But there are so many advantages and ways that adopting a pet can improve your life as an older woman.

First, pets bring joy. Research has repeatedly shown that pet ownership improves the quality of life, especially for seniors. Human-Animal Companion Interaction (HAI) can have a significant effect on the lives of both you and your animal. Many people believe that interaction with a pet increases oxytocin. An international team of researchers concluded that both HAI and oxytocin were found to promote social interaction, to reduce stress and anxiety and to enhance human health. They concluded that the numerous advantages to pet ownership includes the following:

Older pet owners had lower blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol levels. Adults who walked dogs accumulated at least 30 minutes of walking a day. Dog walking is associated with lower body mass index (BMI), fewer limitation in activity, fewer doctor visits and more frequent moderate and vigorous exercise. Owning a dog, or being responsible for any pet gives us a sense of purpose. Our pets need us for their well being and reciprocate with affection, loyalty and kisses. It helps set up a routine for the day.

Pets prevent us from being isolated and lonely. We feel needed and loved, especially for older adults who live alone. Petting a dog or cat releases stress and helps you to calm down; they help not only our physical but our mental health as well. They brighten our day and help us feel energized and enlivened. Pets help distract us from our day to day worries during our periods of depression.

Not only do they act as our friend and emotional support, they help us meet people when we walk them. A dog can be your dating coach and exercise coach as well.

“We humans can learn a few things from dogs. They live in the present. They don’t hold grudges. They let go of their anger daily, hourly and never let it fester. They absolve and forgive with each passing minute. Every turn of a corner is an opportunity for a clean slate. Every bounce of a ball brings joy and the promise of a fresh chase”. Stephen Rowley.

After only three weeks, Linus is my best buddy. He is my confidant, my squirrel chasing, non stop licking machine, walking partner who dances around the kitchen as he eagerly awaits his dinner. Pets are spiritual teachers, teaching us to live in the here and now and love unconditionally. They help us to be humble and grateful and to approach new things with curiosity and enthusiasm. My life is enhanced by Linus’ presence in it. XO. Penny