If you’re a pet lover, your furry friend may be providing you much more than companionship:  He or she may actually be adding years to your life!  How?  By improving your physical and mental health.  Doctors of chiropractic like Dr. Smith focus on the connection between the mind, body and spirit when it comes to maximizing well-being.  For many people, pet ownership enriches all three aspects of wellness.

Dr. Smith is concerned about the rampant use of blood pressure and cholesterol-lowering drugs, both of which have potentially serious side effects.  Pet ownership, on the other hand, is an all-natural alternative to drugs:  a perfect complement to the chiropractic lifestyle philosophy of disease prevention.

The following are just a few of the many ways pet ownership enhances emotional and physical health:

• Provides unconditional love.
• Sparks socialization.
• Creates extended family.
• Reduces stress and drug use.
• Encourages exercise.
• Promotes intestinal health.
• Diminishes dermatitis.

Before dashing off to the animal rescue shelter or pet shop, take time to research your options:  particularly when it comes to dogs.  Canine considerations should include breed, temperament, your activity level, the size of your home and age of your children.