Dogs, cats make people happy and may even make them healthier
Being in the pest control business involves getting rid of many undesirable creatures: rats, mice, roaches, ants, termites, fleas, wasps … you name it. We also remove unwanted animals from customers’ properties.
So, just what do we think of animals, given that we treat so many of them as problematic?
Most of us like animals … a lot. Not termites or fleas so much, but dogs and cats hold a special place in the hearts of many members of the Slug-A-Bug team.
In fact, Slug-A-Bug was a pioneer in the use of a termite-detecting dog: Katie. After her retirement, Katie the Termite Dog went on to be the company’s mascot. No doubt, you’ve seen her canine face emblazoned on Slug-A-Bug’s vehicles in the area.
Slug-A-Bug has also been involved in events aimed at helping animal-outreach organizations. For example, we’ve supported Paws On The Catwalk Fashion Show, an event that benefits the Brevard Humane Society.
There’s been plenty written on this subject already, but animals make life better. Some studies indicate health benefits, both physical and mental. The American Heart Association has found that people with dogs are 54 percent more likely to get their recommended exercise levels than people without dogs.
Some experts believe that dogs can help fortify mental health in a number of ways. A dog owner (or cat owner, for that matter) has a purposeful routine to follow in caring for the pet, which can foster mental stability. Many pet owners report that their animals make them happy, which elevates serotonin and dopamine levels. They can also prevent people from feeling lonely.
However, none of this is indisputable fact. Some studies suggest uneven results when trying to establish these benefits. But even so, few pet owners will deny that animals can be a great source of enjoyment — whether or not they improve health.
And dogs can alert you to intruders around the house, of course. Their keen hearing and territorial barking is like having a furry security system.
By the way, if you’re interested in a pet, don’t forget to take advantage of the wonderful pet-rescue organizations here on the Space Coast. I mentioned the Brevard Humane Society. There’s also Animal Services at the Brevard County Sheriff’s office. The program waives adoption fees for people over 60, along with veterans and active-duty military.
Others include the South Animal Care and Adoption Center – Brevard County, the SPCA of Brevard in Titusville and the Animal Sanctuary. They all have cats and dogs that need loving homes.