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Pets are therapeutic. Whether we want or need them for love, as emotional support animals, service or guide dogs, or just as a loyal companion, pets are sometimes needed. They are family, especially for those of us who live alone. Whether it be a cat, dog, bird, or ferret, our pets become part of us, our family, the whole picture. But physical and financial responsibilities come with owning a pet.

I started to write this article a few months ago. However, this article has taken a different turn. As of this writing, I had to put down my fur baby. She was the best pup I’ve ever had. Her name was Fallon and she was 13 years old. I named her after the talk show host Jimmy Fallon because she was a clown. I am grieving and I know I will continue to grieve. I should. Just like MS, there is no alarm clock that tells us when the grieving should stop. It doesn’t matter if one lives alone or not, our pets are family and a part of our day-to-day life. That’s what tears me apart. She is and was part of my family, my day-to-day life. I’m crying as I type this, so I’m surprised my laptop is still working.
 

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Here's a link you might be interested to read on this topic of the health benefits of pets.

I’m not saying having a pet is good for everyone. Allergies, size of the pet, and training are key. Whether you live alone, with family, or have a partner matter as well. There are several things to keep in mind when you take on a pet with MS. Even though I’m grieving, I condone having pets, if it works within your lifestyle.

Stress and burnout rates of all sorts have been on the rise. That being said, having a furry friend at home can be a therapeutic release in more ways than one. The ways pets can improve our physical and mental health can also help us age in a more healthy way. For instance, pets help us in these and many other ways:

* Reducing stress, depression, and anxiety
* Ease loneliness
* Provide unconditional love and support
* Offer a sense of purpose for those living with chronic illness
* Make us laugh

There are many resources out there for adopting pets such as the North Shore League, SPCA, and other animal rescues. And there are other resources available to train animals to best fit you and your needs. 

Long story short, pets can improve our lives in many ways, but we still have a responsibility as “parents” to care for them in all the ways needed – shots, flea and tick medications, etc. 

My story is and has become personal. When I first started writing this piece, it was joyous. Now I will find a new pup and will be joyous again soon, but it may take a while for me to get there. It’s important to grieve.

Pets are spiritual and special in their own way. I wish they could tell us when they’re in pain. I wish they could tell us when we are in pain. Some dogs are trained to “smell” such things, but with MS, is that so? I’d like to know more about this. I know my fur baby could tell when I was under the weather and feeling down. I could tell by her behavior and the way she would look at me. 

I miss her so much.