I would think so, because stroking pets can lower heart rate and make people feel more relaxed. I don't know if it would increase lifespan by many years, but it may do.

I would definitely say yes. I know plenty of older people that have pets and should have passed on long ago. They give us something to look forward to, especially if no one else is around.

It seems like I saw a special on National Geographic or Discovery Health about this and they were taking dogs and cats to retirement homes because it is proven to help reduce depression and the petting releases endorphins.

Dropped off a patient in an assisted living place in West Palm Beach. Upon entering the place, we could not help but notice 2 large cats, in living room section where senior citizens were watching tv. One cat was on sofa with an elderly lady, she was petting it. The other cat was lying in an elderly gentlemans lap in a recliner! We were told there were 3 cats living in the place. The older people who lived here were more calm, seemed happier and loved having the cats around. I think it would be an excellent idea for more homes to allow small animals, especially if the older person is depressed or lonely....... I vote YES...ANIMALS/PETS do make a less stressful life............they are wonderful!

and so R U!!!!! xoxo,Homie

I definitely think that having pets increases your life span. I have a kitten and I really love him soooo much. I grew up in a household with 2 cats and two dogs. And having these pets brought so much warmth and joy to our house.

Definitely. We have a dog and a cat, and a fish! Pets are good companions, they can make you laugh.

If that is true, then in my case definately (On beta-blockers to keep bp down).

Otherwise, I don't know... will just have to wait and see how long I live

Most deffinatley! Without my babies I would be a wreck...oops! Shouldn't forget hubby! Seriously though, my dogs are my salvation...they know when I've had a bad day and they provide the perfect cuddles to help me feel better. When I am super stressed nothing makes me feel better than loving on my pups, and maybe having a glass of wine also!

Male dog and I go twice a week to a local nursing home, where he provides pet therapy for the patients. Everyone loves to see him and it really dose seem to make an impact on their lives.

Thats awesome I remember you helping me threw my heartache when my new born baby got critically ill and passed away Thank you for that,your love and compassion is wonderful!

Welcome Homie! Anything I can do for other pet parents!!! I just started the pet therapy with Dog 1, after so many people suggested it due to his sweet nature. Poor Dog 2...she's a wonderful girl but very fisty, and at her age...very set in her ways, we love her none the less of course. I can't really begin to describe the impact Boudreaux's visits have made on the residents at the nursing home. They all tell me that they look forward to him and that he reminds them of being at home with their own pets. It is so sweet, he lays his head in their laps and gets ear rubs.....then he shakes for them. It is so awesome to see what a powerful impact animals can have on a person's life. I hope all of your babies are doing well !

My babies are doing great. Chache has 2 boys and 1 girl on Friday night! We didn't want her to get pregnant again but she and Napoleon...well...it must be love!!!! All 7 of my babies are doing wonderful,thank you!!! And I think Boudreaux ROCKS!

yes i think so...dogs provide great companionship and they always seem to be there for you no matter how bad of a day you had, and they can put a smile on your face..its just nice to get home and be greeted with a big smile and wagging tail

Right On!

Thanks Homie!!! I should have responded sooner but it has been a crazy week. I'm so happy to hear that all of your babes are doing well!!! Oh yes it sounds like love between Chache and Napolen!!!! Congrats on the new babies!!!!!! I would love to see pics!!! Yes Boudreaux does rock ....he's such a sweet a baby! I will learn how to post pics at some point! Take care and give kisses to the pups!!!! Oh god.....I just remembered....you get to smell puppy breath!!!!

I know! they need to bottle that smell...its so sweet....

Another busy week...we are renovating so we are in and out of the house! You are so right!!!! Puppy breath should be bottled...I love it so much!!!!! Glad to hear your babies are good!!! Take Care;)

Absolutely...well the nice dogs and cats can increase your life span however if you encounter a meanie then it may have the opposite effect.

~Zig