One of the most overlooked allies in cardiovascular wellness and the recovery from surgery can be found right at home, and that is a beloved pet. Whether it is the endearing loyalty of a dog, or the soothing and gentle comfort of a cat, pet ownership is coming to the forefront as a powerful ally in cardiovascular wellness. For patients in Westwood, CA, Dr. Maria Tehrani is a strong advocate of these unconventional and powerful approaches to pet therapy advantages, especially during and after recovering from strenuous cardiac procedures.
The Science Behind Pets and Cardiovascular Wellness
Like many other pet lovers, the American Heart Association, Harvard Health, and other major institutes have the afiliated hospitals doing research, and the results of years of research are in and the results confirm what pet lovers have always suspected and this is pet ownership is good for the heart and health. Especially with dog ownership, individuals experience favorable cardiac health as evidenced by lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels and obesity, and improvement in heart rate variability.
A landmark study published in a major scientific journal found that cardiovascular mortality was lower among dog owners, even if they suffered a heart attack or stroke. This was rooted in more exercise, emotional encouraging, and the daily structure that comes with taking care of a dog. Routine walks, play and engagements with the dog results in an increased level of movement, which is vital in the prevention and management of heart disease.
Further studies indicate that with a pet, especially with light care, the individual experiences a decline in acute stress and a reduced heart rate. The individual also experiences a regulation in blood pressure resulting from emotional or physical stress. These petting or calm moments allow the individual to calm down and recover from a heart event, which could lessen the potential of having another heart incident.
The Emotional Power of the Human-Animal Bond
Recovery from the surgery or from a heart illness is more complex. It is vital to the recovery process to have an emotional connection. Pets bond and are a constant source of comfort which helps alleviate loneliness and depression which are common during recovery. After going through a hospitalization, patients experience feelings of anxiety and doom. Reuniting with a devoted dog or a nurturing cat increases the mood and helps with motivation.
Pets are the “reason to get out of the bed” for countless patients, helping them follow through on their rehabilitation routines, medication, and daily activity. Caring for another living fills a vital need, an affirmation of self-worth, and purpose which are essential in the process of healing.
Recovering in the Hospital with a Therapy Dog
Therapy dog programs, in an effort to speed up recovery, have been added to hospitals across the nation in the last few years with some clinics in Los Angeles. During therapy dog visits to cardiac care units, patients are offered comfort, a source of joy, and distraction from pain during stressful transition periods. Supported by the research on the impact of therapy animals, patients experience lower blood pressure and heart rates, and heightened positive emotions and sociability.
One patient from Westwood spoke about recovery from heart valve surgery and how the therapy dogs in the hospital changed her experience. “I felt braver and less alone with every visit,” she said, remembering the joy she felt having smiling dogs during her daily therapy, which had once been a dull routine.
Real Life Stories from Westwood
Roger, a Westwood, CA resident states, “My dog has encouraged me to take daily and more vigorous walks around Veterans Parkway Park. This was very good for my heart. It also lifted my spirit after my bypass surgery. Walking Benji became the cornerstone of my recovery… and our routine kept me moving even on tough days.”
Says another heart patient, “The gentle purring of my rescue cat after my heart attack made me realize that I needed to rehab in a more self nurturing way, slowing down and calmly appreciating the moments.”
Scientific Studies: The Evidence Is Clear
Leading studies emphasize that dog ownership is associated with lower incidence of hypertension (high blood pressure) and better control of metabolic risk factors. The ownership of a pet can dissipate perceived stress, enhance social interaction, and foster deeper and more restorative sleep which is essential for the heart.
In a world saddled with cardiovascular diseases, a longitudinal study followed over three million people and found that dog owners had a lower risk of dying from cardiovascular causes. The researchers of this study have hypothesized that the positive outcomes suffered from physical exertion, low stress levels, and even more so the mental companionship that benefits a dog provides.
Tips for Optimizing Heart Health with Pets
For those dealing with heart conditions or recovering from surgery, including pet care into their daily activities can be safe as well as advantageous. Here are some suggestions:
– Talk to your doctor or a medical professional: You may be able to participate in light activities such as walking, or light playing, but only if your doctor has cleared you.
– Implement scheduled pet care: Let pet care routines (feeding, walking, playtime, etc.) act as reminders of when to take the medications,
– Connect with the surrounding community: Westwood has many pet friendly parks, open public activities that involve walking, as well as organized walking groups; socializing while engaging in pet care also improves mental and physical health.
– Mindful pet care: Set a relaxation break, during which you quietly brush or pat your pet, and take advantage of the relaxing and calming results of the practice.
– Help your recovery by sharing the duties: Ask family members, or people in your social circle, to help you maintain your pet’s routine from which the pet can benefit from the shared companionship.
If You Are Not Ready for a Pet, Here are Some Alternatives
Owning a pet might not be for everyone. However, research shows the heart healthy benefits associated with pet companionship are gained from other activities:
– Become an active volunteer in your community with animal shelter and/or rescue groups.
– Attend and assist on therapy animal visits at the local hospital or the surrounding community support centers.
– Spend valuable and quality time with a friend’s pet, or join nearby dog walking clubs.
Final Thoughts: Building Heart Health One Paw at a Time
Having a pet and being around animals is not just a joyous activity, but has been scientifically proven to promote wellness, especially for heart patients. Every Westwood Resident is encouraged by Dr. Maria Tehrani to treat having an animal as one of the important elements of holistic heart therapy and emotional rehabilitation. Heart health is not only about the metrics but also about the value added to life by the routines and companionship of pets.
To bounce back, lift your spirits, and heal the heart, a simple tail wag, a walk around the park, or a gentle nuzzle may just do the trick.
