In some places, dolphins act as doctors, but most often, it's those nearby—ordinary, familiar pets: cats, dogs, and horses—who do the work. It's believed that domestic cats are natural-born doctors. Their gentle purring is wonderfully calming, lowering blood pressure and normalizing the pulse. A cat's warm body, clad in a soft, fluffy coat, is an excellent heating pad, so comforting and pleasant for joints affected by arthritis and rheumatism. Isn't that a fitting reward for a saucer of milk and a piece of fish?
But don't think every cat is ready to swear the Hippocratic Oath. Even from a single litter, some kittens will have an inexplicable affinity for human sore spots, while others won't. It's pointless to place the latter next to you; they'll never agree to do something they don't know how to do. What can you do? Nature distributes her gifts unevenly, even among animals.
Dogs are a bit easier. While cats can go potty indoors, owning a dog requires walking, which means you'll have to “sprawl” in the fresh air, racking up those heart-healthy miles at a leisurely pace. We're wired to be lazy when it comes to ourselves. But a dog has its own needs. You have to keep moving, whether it's raining or snowing. Sometimes it's unpleasant, but it's always beneficial.
That's not all. Children with central nervous system disorders literally “lift” themselves by interacting with a dog. Accustomed to being cared for by others, the children gain the opportunity to care for others and feel like leaders.
Horses are among the smartest pets. True, not everyone has the opportunity to interact with them. It's hard to keep a beautiful, but very large, half-ton animal in a city apartment. But horse enthusiasts find a way out, happily spending the time commuting to an equestrian center.
Besides communication, a horse gives a person the opportunity to move. The rider experiences oscillatory movements in all directions, both horizontally and vertically. Joints, muscles, and the vestibular system are exercised, and coordination of movements is improved.
Aquarium fish rarely interact with their owners; they can't be touched or petted. However, observing the smooth movements of aquarium inhabitants and the leisurely flow of underwater life helps relieve stress and tension. Furthermore, an indoor pond humidifies the air, making it healthier for humans.
The cheerful chatter of parrots and the trills of canaries can sometimes become tiresome. But for those with limited mobility and depression, observing them is extremely beneficial. Birds help you relax and can even cure severe migraines.
Caring for animals such as rabbits, hamsters and other rodents helps overcome insecurity and alleviate the condition of sore joints.
People call all these amazing animals “our lesser brothers.” There's little modesty in such statements. But despite our arrogance, these intelligent animals love us and are always ready to help.
