Therefore, there is no better time to review all the psychological benefits of pet guardianship. According to the World Health Organization, “1 in every 8 people, or 970 million people around the world” live with a mental health disorder. Anxiety and Depressive disorders are the most common, encompassing a broad range of negative emotions including sadness, distress, or fear. A growing body of evidence suggests that the Human-Animal Bond (HAB) can reduce many symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Specifically, research has indicated that pet guardianship and the Human-Animal Bond (HAB) produces the following results:

• improvement of social attention, behavior, interpersonal interaction, and mood
• reduction of stress-related parameters such as cortisol, heart rate, and blood pressure
• reduction of fear and anxiety
• improvement of physical health, especially cardiovascular health
• increased trustworthiness of and trust toward other persons
• reduction in aggressive behavior
• enhanced levels of empathy towards others

At PAWS NY, our mission is to keep people and pets together, and protect the human-animal bond that is so psychologically and physically beneficial. And we see the impact of this every day.

“My dog is basically my savior in life,” said a PAWS NY client. “He brings me more joy and stability than anything else in the world.”

In honor of World Mental Health Day, take some time to snuggle your furry friends and enjoy the emotional and mental health benefits of your bond.

The post How Pets Improve Mental Health appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

It’s imperative to include pets in your emergency plans. Visit the website for the NYC Office of Emergency Management or the American Red Cross to find resources regarding preparing for all types of emergencies.

In case of an emergency evacuation, your pet should have a designated bag (aka a “Go Bag”), ready at all times. Make sure to fill the bag with water, pet food, medications, an extra collar and/or leash, veterinary records including vaccinations, and a blanket or small bed. Having a way to transport a pet, like a carrier or crate, is also recommended. The ASPCA has more details, including a list of what to include in your pet’s Go Bag. Do not leave your pet behind.

In the event that NYC’s emergency shelters are open, pets are allowed on public transportation and at city evacuation centers. If your pet ever gets lost, visit Animal Care & Control of New York City.

In addition to natural or human-induced disasters, it is vital to have a plan for your pet in the case that you are faced with an unexpected health emergency and have to be hospitalized. To create a plan, we recommend the following steps:

• Identify a trusted caregiver for your pet. When exploring caregiving options, consider friends, family, building staff, and/or neighbors.
• Discuss with them how to care for your pet, including where you keep your pets’ Go Bag and all special instructions regarding your pets’ behavior, medical status, and more.
• Ensure that your chosen caregiver has a means of accessing your home (ie a set of keys).
• Carry a wallet card with pet caregiver’s name and contact information.

If your designated caregiver is not available and you are facing a hospitalization, PAWS NY may be able to help through our Emergency and Foster Program. If eligible, a foster volunteer through PAWS NY can help by opening their home and caring for your pet temporarily while you recover. Contact us at referrals@pawsny.org or (212) 203-4760.

Later this month, the NYC Office of Emergency Management will be hosting a Pet Preparedness Fair on Thursday, September 28, from 11:00am to 2:00pm at Union Square Park North Plaza. PAWS NY will be there, so stop by to learn more!

The post Make Pet Preparations in Honor of National Preparedness Month appeared first on Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY.

Carrie Nydick Finch, the Deputy Director of Programs and Strategy at PAWS NY, contributed to an article about how pets can positively impact your health.

“What’s one of the strongest prescriptions for better health? According to decades of scientific research, it may be owning a pet. There is a wide range of proven health benefits,” she included in the piece. But it’s important to remember, “a relationship with an animal companion is a relationship: Take the time to develop it. Spend time with your companion every day. Take your dog for a walk; play games with your cat. This will build a strong bond and provide the best health for you and your friend.”

Read the full article in Bottom Line Health here.

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The program provides Foster and Emergency Care services to New Yorkers who are hospitalized and don’t have anyone to help care for their pets. Additionally, the program will support older adults and other vulnerable populations by helping them prepare for emergencies with their pets.

Earlier this year, All for Animals TV produced a segment all about the Preserving Families in Times of Crisis Program, discussing what happens in the event of an emergency, as well as the emergency pre-planning that is so important.

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PAWS NY: What advice do you have for getting cats into their carriers for a trip to the vet?

Dr. Hildenbrand: For most cats, their home is their sanctuary; it is safe there. This way, when they see the carrier come out, they’re like, “I know this means I’m leaving and it’s not going to be fun.” I tell people to take the carrier out well in advance, even days before your appointment. The cat will get used to it being there, they may even sleep in it. You can use treats to lure them into the carrier too.

If you’re really having a hard time getting them into the carrier, then you can talk to your vet about getting medication beforehand so you can help get them into the carrier. Talk about it with your vet personally because they might have other recommendations that are more specific.

Also, carriers that have multiple ways of going in—like top down or from the front—are easier on owners because some cats don’t like one way or the other. Carriers that have more ways to open can be easier as well.

PAWS NY: What are the most important things for cat guardians to understand about cat health?

Dr. Hildenbrand: Cats are notorious for not telling us when they are hurt until its very late. One way you can combat that is by getting to know your cat and knowing what their normal is. By knowing their normal, then you know when they are not acting like themselves. You can see the signs early on and know when to bring them to your vet.

Also having them get annual check-ups, especially as they get older, is important, because it can help us identify problems earlier. We can do screening and bloodwork, so we have a good point of reference for the future if anything happens.

PAWS NY: What tips do you have about cat grooming?

Dr. Hildenbrand: Cats are very good about maintaining themselves, typically. People ask me, “should I bathe my cat?” I usually say no. Cats are very good about grooming themselves. If you have a larger cat who might be a little overweight and can’t groom properly and reach areas. Longer-haired cats can get matted, so those are some areas where you can help with grooming. You can try to see if the cat likes to be brushed; some cats love it and some cats hate it.

In terms of getting their nails trimmed, if you can start them early with that, it’s the easier thing to do. Lots of positive reinforcement. Give them treats and Churu to give them positive reinforcement for getting their nails done. If they’re not really open to it, you can go in steps: positive reinforcement for showing them the nail trimmer, then touching their foot, and so on. It might take some time, but you can get there. Monitor that and make sure their nails aren’t growing into their paw pads. And you can always go to a groomer or vet to get help if nothing is working.

PAWS NY: What about advice for giving a cat medication?

Dr. Hildenbrand: It usually depends on what the medication is. I think the less hands on you can be with a cat, the better. Once they decide they aren’t into something, you don’t have a lot of wiggle room. If you can give it in a very benign way, like food or a Churu, that’s the way to go. Pill pockets or a soft cover to just cover it up. If it’s a powder, you can sprinkle it into food.

If you’re having trouble giving medication, you can also work with your vet. Sometimes there are ways for us to give it in a different form. People usually know what works for giving medication to their cat, so then you can go from there.

We hope this advice is helpful! Watch the full video here and DM us with any additional cat health questions!

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Photo of Bruno courtesy of volunteer Khadeja

Celebrating “Walk Your Dog Month” in January is a good reminder for humans to keep up the walks even during the cold months. But how can you make your pup’s walks even better for them?

Here are five tips to help improve your dog’s walks:

1. Take Your Time – We may want to rush the walks during these cold months, but dogs love to sniff and explore during their time outside…and that can be beneficial for their health. Do you have time to visit the dog park or walk down a new street? How can you give your pup more quality time with you?
2. Be Prepared – From waste disposal bags to proper identification, it’s important to be prepared and have all you need when walking your dog. Monitor the weather and be prepared with booties for the cold or water on the hot days. The right equipment can also make or break a walk, so be sure to try on new leashes and collars before going out in public with your dog, so they have a chance to get used to them. And you can make sure they can’t wiggle out and escape!
3. Incorporate Treats & Training – Whether you’re working with a leash-reactive dog, training your pup to walk on a loose leash, or simply rewarding good behavior, there are little ways to incorporate training into your dog’s walks. Bring along treats and keep an eye out for the behavior you want to encourage in your dog!
4. Listen to Your Pup – Dogs need different levels of exercise based on their breed, age, and their overall health. Research your dog’s breed, ask questions at the vet, and take cues from your pup when it comes to the length and intensity of walks. Sticking to a set routine or schedule can also help dogs know what to expect and get excited for their time on the leash with you.
5. Be Present – It’s easy to zone out on your phone while walking your dog. But to your pup, this is prime quality time! Engage with them and have fun on your walks, and you will see more excitement from your dog as well. Plus, by being more present, you will be more likely to see and avoid potential hazards or stressors. All around good things!

We hope these tips help improve your dog’s walks in 2023! PAWS NY volunteers, be sure to share photos with us from these lovely walks!

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PAWS NY film THE BRIDGE inspired by true story about abandoned dog that pushes man suffering from depression back from the edge

NEW YORK  – January 12, 2023 – Grammy-winning musician Lou Reed’s haunting 1972 hit “Perfect Day” and an animated, gritty New York cityscape set the scene for a beautiful love story in THE BRIDGE, the bittersweet short film from nonprofit PAWS NY spotlighting the mental health benefits of pets. Written and produced by Klick Health and animated by Lightfarm Studios, the film debuted today on YouTube.

The four-minute film tells the story of a lonely New Yorker having suicidal thoughts and an abandoned dog experiencing parallel lives of rejection, until their paths repeatedly cross and a quiet bond begins to grow. THE BRIDGE uses a raw, edgy illustrative style with distorted proportions, and blue and gray undertones to express the main character’s inner turmoil and mental state until the film’s climax on the Brooklyn Bridge.

Inspired by a true story, THE BRIDGE explores how the characters’ connection ends up saving both their lives. Co-writer and Klick Health ‘Maker’ Bernardo Romero conceived of the animated short after losing his own dog and hearing the heartwarming tale from a stranger on the New York subway.

“I hope THE BRIDGE will serve as a catalyst for more life-changing encounters between pets and people, and will help PAWS NY in their fundraising efforts so they can continue ensuring these important, but often overlooked, life-saving bonds form,” Romero said.

“Our goal with this film is to get people talking about the positive impact pets can have on our mental health,” said PAWS NY Founder and Executive Director Rachel Herman. “Mental health issues are prevalent this time of year, due to the post-holiday blues and darker, colder days, but studies show having a pet can reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness all year long. Now more than ever, it’s important to keep these life-saving connections alive.”

Trigger Warning: This story contains themes of depression and suicide.

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About PAWS NY

The mission of Pets Are Wonderful Support (PAWS) NY is to help New York City’s most vulnerable residents remain with their pets by delivering critical programs and services through a community of partners and volunteers. As a 501(c)3 organization, our programs help keep pets in their homes while protecting and promoting the human-animal bond that is so physically and psychologically valuable to our clients. Thus, our motto: helping people by helping pets. To learn more, visit www.pawsny.org. 

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Contact:

PAWS NY: Kimberly Green
(o): 212-203-4760, x304
(e): Kimberly.Green@pawsny.org

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The results of an exciting new survey were released last month from researchers at the

Survey: Pet Care During Health Crises

More than half of survey respondents, 63%, reported difficulty figuring out pet care during their own hospitalization and/or that of a loved one. In addition, nearly a third of the respondents said that pet care needs impacted their decision, or the decision of someone they knew, about whether to stay in the hospital even when medically recommended. Additionally, 16% of respondents said that they know someone who has left the hospital against medical advice in order to care for their pets. These results are striking and highlight this incredibly challenging issue. The researchers even noted that, due to its small scale, the survey likely under-estimates the scope of the problem.

“We see a rising need for a formalized services to identify patients early in their course who need assistance with pet care, and a need to provide better resources, before it becomes a crisis and impacts their care or the welfare of their pets,” said Tiffany Braley, M.D., M.S., the senior author and principal investigator. Read more about the survey here.

How PAWS NY Tackles This Issue

Here at PAWS NY, we have long known that pet guardians make decisions about their health care based on whether or not they have access to care for their furry family members. We have personally heard over and over from guardians who either delay medical care or leave the hospital against medical advice, because their pets are home alone. Because our clients are socially isolated and under-resourced, they often do not have the support needed to arrange for pet care and freely seek medical care when necessary.

PetSmart Charities has also recognized this challenge and wants to help address the issue. The organization recently awarded funding to PAWS NY, Animal Haven, and Search and Care in order to assist the most vulnerable pet guardians at risk of losing their animals due to health crises and hospitalizations. The resulting project, “Preserving Families in Times of Crisis,” will support older adults and other vulnerable populations by helping them prepare for emergencies with their pets, and providing emergency and foster care for pets while their guardians recover and are ultimately reunited.  

We are excited that scholarly research is supporting the importance of tackling this issue on the ground level and hope our work continues to highlight the importance of emergency planning for pets.

If you or someone you know is in need of pet care while dealing with a health crisis, email PAWS NY at Referrals@pawsny.org. 

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For instance, check out some research and data below that backs up this important human-animal bond that is so physically and psychologically valuable to our clients.

Dogs & Exercise

The most obvious benefit to owning a pet, especially a dog, is that you get more physical exercise while walking and playing with your pup. 

In 2011, researchers from Michigan State University reported that among dog owners who took their pets for regular walks, nearly 50% exercised an average of 30 minutes a day at least five days a week, which is considered moderate or vigorous exercise. By comparison, only about a third of those without dogs got that much regular exercise.

Pets & Mental Health

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become evident how much cats, dogs, and other pets can brighten our moods and keep us level and steady throughout the toughest times.

Several studies back up this anecdotal evidence, including a study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, which revealed that seniors who owned dogs were “buffered from the impact of stressful life events on physician utilization.” A 2013 article in Western Journal of Nursing Research reported that for older adults (age 55-84), a high attachment to a pet has been associated with lower levels of loneliness.

Additionally, the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) recently found that 74% of pet owners reported mental health improvements from pet ownership. HABRI also highlighted the top 5 mental health benefits of having a pet, including alleviating stress, reducing loneliness, and fighting depression.

Pets & Heart Health

In the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology, researchers noticed a link between cat ownership and a decreased risk of dying from heart attack or stroke, calling cat ownership a “novel strategy for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases in high-risk individuals.” When individuals are stressed, just the sound of a cat’s purr can calm nerves and lower blood pressure.

In addition, a study released in Psychosomatic Medicine found that pet ownership of any kind has been associated with lower blood pressure, lower heart rate, and faster recovery during mental stress. In 2013, the American Heart Association (AHA) issued a similar scientific statement suggesting that pet ownership (particularly dogs) may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Boosting Immunity

Even the younger individuals see health benefits from spending time with pets and animals. A team of researchers from the Department of Psychology at Wilkes University found that when college students spent only 18 minutes with a dog, the immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels in their saliva increased, which is a sign of strong immune function.

In conclusion, the animal-human bond is one that is of utmost importance, and we’re proud to help vulnerable New Yorkers stay with their pets and keep this bond so strong.

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