#OptOutside for #PetFriday
Greenhill Humane Society invites community members to destress after the holidays with some fuzzy love.
Eugene, OR: Instead of fighting through crowds at the store, spend Black Friday feeling the love. Greenhill Humane Society and 1st Avenue Shelter are inviting people to visit cats, dogs, and small animals at both locations on the day after Thanksgiving to help them de-stress for the holidays.
“The holidays and shopping can both be really stressful,” says Lauren Merge, Greenhill Humane Society’s Communications and Events Manager. “We’re hoping by reminding folks that they have access to pets to help them relax, everyone can enjoy a happier, calmer holiday season – including the shelter pets!”
Research shows that spending time with pets has major health benefits such as…
Reducing Stress – Touching pets can be an antidote to depression. No one loves you more unconditionally than a pet. One study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology, found that having a pet may reduce blood pressure and relieve stress, and, as a result, reduce the risk of heart disease. Stroking or snuggling an animal can have a calming effect which is beneficial to both people and pets.
Helping You Sleep Better – Dogs in a home provide a sense of security. Large and small dogs can create a disturbance that burglars would prefer to avoid. Plus, with your reduced stress levels, falling asleep is faster and easier.
Helping You Lose Weight – Petmd.com estimates over 50% of America’s Pet population is overweight, and the CDC estimates over 67% of Americans are overweight or obese. Added weight can increase the risk for many serious conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, breathing problems, and heart disease (in people and in pets). Together, you and your pet can improve your health and decrease weight by increasing physical activity. According to the ASPCA, regular exercise burns more calories, reduces appetite, changes body composition and will increase your pet’s resting metabolic rate.
So forget about Black Friday – come out to Greenhill Humane Society and 1st Avenue Shelter for #PetFriday!
