Resolution Solution - Pets Improve Your Quality of Life

2008: A new year has begun, and as tradition would have it, we find ourselves stepping back and reflecting on the previous year. We examine our successes and shortcomings, efforts and attempts and feel compelled to make the ever-popular and often infamous "New Year's resolution."

Most commonly, these resolutions include: losing weight, exercising more, eating better, quitting smoking, saving money, getting out of debt, and getting a better job. All too often, however, the motivation toward those new declarations is short lived – sometimes not even making it past the first week!

Though we commend ourselves for making the attempt, we somehow leniently forgive ourselves for neglecting to see our goals through. Perhaps the efforts are half-hearted – making a change for change's sake – and not for the actual desire for the outcome itself. Or maybe our approach toward self-improvement could use a little unconventional assistance. Well, fear not. North Shore Animal League America has found the perfect resolution solution; and we're positive that you'll not only be able to keep your resolutions, but you'll find it easier than ever to do so and have fun in the process.

Did it ever occur to you that adopting a pet could potentially assist you in losing weight, quitting smoking, exercising more, saving money and increasing your quality of life? It's no secret that increasing your activity level results in better health and weight loss when combined with a sensible diet. And it's easy to understand that starting a new exercise regimen can be somewhat intimidating and often unexciting. But what can be more comforting and less intimidating than walking your canine companion or dangling string in front of your kitty cohort?

In a recent study, researchers found that walking a dog 20 minutes a day, five days a week produced an average weight loss of about 14 pounds over a period of 50 weeks. The same study also showed that people are more committed to walking when they know the well being of their canine buddies are depending on it. On average, dog owners got almost twice as much mild to moderate exercise as non dog owners. All of a sudden, it doesn't seem like exercise anymore. Instead, it's a refreshing walk with your best friend and a great way for the two of you to bond.

Walking as a means of exercise is very popular today. The benefits are vast and apply to all age groups. Experts claim that walking not only encourages weight loss, but also adds muscle, reduces stress, aids in sleeping, promotes flexibility, battles depression, reduces the likeliness of vertebrae fractures and may even decrease your odds of getting certain cancers.

Fitness centers are a great way to get strong and stay fit; but sometimes going to the gym isn't convenient for everyone. It can be costly, time consuming and for some, even a little dull. A brisk walk outside with your loving companion, however, can certainly rival even the most advanced sports complex. What you can do on a treadmill, you can do with Fido by your side. Studies show that people that walk their dogs for fun and fitness have different attitudes, and what once may have been a chore, is now a fun and healthy outlet. In comparison to that pricey gym membership that many don't make the most of, a free walk in the park or a stroll around the block may be the frugal solution you've been looking for without the isolating boredom that some associate with treading on the mill. You can enjoy the company of your four-legged companion and fill your lungs with fresh air while fulfilling those New Year's resolutions to lose weight, exercise more and save money.

Did you ever think that adopting a pet could help you quit smoking? Studies have proven that a nicotine craving can last from anywhere from three to six minutes. These moments are critical and many are likely to succumb to temptation during this time. However, a solid distraction can help those crave-minutes fly by. So instead of reaching for a cigarette, reach for that ball of string and dangle it in front of your cat. It will give your feline friend some always-beneficial physical activity, form a bond between the two of you and take your mind off of that pesky and hazardous craving. Allow a dog or cat to help you to quit smoking. You'll not only improve your overall health, you'll save money, and make a best friend for life.

In addition, adopting a pet can improve your overall quality of life. A recent study between pet-owners and non-pet owners revealed that more than half of the pet-owners claimed to be happy with little stress, while the majority of non-pet owners claimed to be the reciprocal. According to the Centers for Disease Control, owning and loving a pet can decrease your blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels and reduce depression, anxiety and loneliness. It is also believed that the close bond between a human and animal companion offers significant social, physiological and psychological benefits. Owning a pet appeals to and is beneficial to people of all ages. Children learn responsibility, value for life, socialization and have higher self-esteem while adults and seniors enjoy the companionship and the feelings of self-worth and purpose that taking care of an animal instills.

All in all, the benefits of pet ownership are infinite and indefinite. They can make us happy, keep us healthy and improve our overall quality of life. Elect to achieve all your resolutions this year by adopting a pet. In addition to resolution success, you'll make a loyal friend and faithful companion. It may be the easiest, most gratifying and most successful declaration you've ever made – or will ever make.