Some People have a will to survive, and a desire to live a long and meaningful life. While there are certain things we can't control, there are many that we can. From a few little things like wearing a seatbelt or eating a piece of fruit, many of us have the keys to our own survival in our hands. 

Most pet owners already know about the pets' positive affect on their health. Just think of all the therapy pets used in hospitals, nursing homes and schools. Simply petting a pet can lower your blood pressure, resulting in a better heart rate. Here are five ways that pets have a profound positive effect on someone in poor health.

1. Interacting with a pet can lift the spirits of an ailing person. Whether it is a physical illness or someone really down in the dumps, the presence of a pet is sure to elate the person and change their whole attitude and outlook.
2. A primary caregiver can benefit through a lower risk of stress-related ailments when there is a pet in the home of the patient.
3. The odds of surviving a heart attack improve dramatically and add to an increased one-year survival rate for those who own a pet.
4. Studies have shown that the presence of a canine companion can relieve some of the anxiety in an Alzheimer's patient.
5. Those with mobility can benefit drastically from daily walks. Not only is walking the pet healthy, but you may meet other pet owners along the way.

Caring for a pet, or any pet for that matter can be a chore. For most pet owners it is a labor of love. The rewards of being a pet owner are numerous and the positive effect they have on our health is a fact that cannot be denied. Owning and caring for your pet can actually add a few quality years to your life.

Dogs may truly be man's best friend

They are loyal, happy, and rarely borrow things without returning them. And, going beyond the call of a "true friend," they also increase a person's life.

Several studies have shown that owning a pet lowers a person's blood pressure, increases self-esteem in children, decreases the mortality rates of heart attack victims, decreases cholesterol, decreases depression, relieves stress, and increases family happiness. Pets also make younger people, more likely to participate in extracurricular activities. Some research predicts that those who own pets will outlive those who don't by an average of seven years.

If you are approaching the retirement years of your life then this is a great time to make an addition to the house by buying a new pup. Your schedule is going to be a lot more flexible than ever before and this gives you a plethora of time to love and tend to your puppy.

Make sure to do a little research first on dog breeds that will be compatible with your retirement years. If you are in need of a relaxed and quiet environment, then certain dogs will not fit well in your house and others may be a bit on the noisy side. But don't be too concerned, there is a perfect dog for every person out there.

Busy young adult going to college or just getting started your own business: 

Getting a puppy can also suit you well even if you are a younger person who is busy with school or starting out in a new career. There is nothing like coming home from a long day of work or a busy class schedule, and right into the arms of your lovable puppy that has an endless amount of love to give you. First, you have to consider the responsibilities of a new puppy, especially for your hectic lifestyle.

1. Don't forget that dogs, especially young puppies, need one-on-one attention almost constantly.
2. Most adults are on a very tight budget and if you are one of them - you need to consider the cost of maintaining a puppy. Between pet food and vet check-ups, these costs can really add up.
3. Always think long-term. Where are you going to live in five to ten years? Are you willing to keep your pet around for that length of time? Remember that dogs are not a temporary relationship - you can't break up with them. These lovable pets will be with you for the next 5 to 10 years.

Are you married to Childs?

There should be no doubt in your mind that a new pet would be great for your family, especially kids. I have yet to meet a child that does not love every puppy they see. Getting a new dog will also teach your kids a little bit about responsibilities and how to take care of an animal. Just use caution when selecting a breed to introduce to your children. Some puppies are not able to handle the rough play that most kids engage in.

Conclusion:

Caring for a dog, or any pet for that matter can be a chore. For most dog owners it is a labor of love. The rewards of being a dog owner are numerous and the positive effect they have on our health is a fact that cannot be denied. Owning and caring for your dog can actually add a few quality years to your life.