Pro PT inc April 2018

Don’t Miss Out on the Benefits of Pets

Minneapolis, says, “Older pet owners have often told us how incredibly barren and lonely their lives were without their pet’s companionship, even when there were some downsides to owning an active pet.”

We tend to picture energetic dogs and cats thriving in young families with children, but animals are often happy to live with older, less active adults. These kinds of homes are especially suited to older animals that might otherwise have to spend their last days in the pound. Depending on your schedule and mobility, you might not want to adopt a large dog. But small lap dogs, cuddly cats, and even birds can make a great addition to your home. As long as you do not suffer from allergies, having a pet can be great for your health. The American Heart Association says pet ownership, particularly dog ownership, may be linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers found evidence to support this claim when they discovered that registered dog owners in Sweden had lower rates of cardiovascular disease and a lower risk of death than individuals without dogs. Physical fitness is far from the only benefit of pet ownership. The love and companionship our animal friends offer can alleviate depression or loneliness. Linda Anderson, founder of the Angel Animals Network in

Caring for a pet takes work, but for many people, the benefits greatly outweigh the challenges. An energetic dog encourages you to leave the house and go for walks, a talkative parrot makes time spent alone less lonely, and a soft cat curled up on your lap helps alleviate a stressful day.

If you can’t have a pet in your home due to lease restrictions or mobility challenges, you don’t have to

miss out on the benefits of being around animals. Consider volunteering at a local animal shelter. You can help care for cats, dogs, and other animals while they wait for their own forever home. There are thousands of pets in shelters across the country waiting for someone to care for them. If there’s room in your retirement plan, why not invite one into your home? You might discover both you and your new friend have something to gain.

Success Stories

“I’ve been coming here for almost eight months since my car accident. At every session, each staff member has been nothing but friendly and helpful. Every time I walk through the door, I’m greeted with a friendly smile. Each staff member

“I realized quite quickly that I am not coordinated enough to climb over a baby gate. This resulted in a fractured ankle, crutches, not being able to go up and down stairs, and general ugh! After two months in a walking cast, the doctor recommended physical therapy. So, it was back to my old

BRAD STEINKA: ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION

stomping grounds. Dr. Patt, Sue, and the entire staff have been amazing. Everyone is friendly and supportive. I felt like I would limp for the rest of my life, but with the help of PT (and diligently doing my exercises at home), I am back to normal. Thanks for all the help and support!”

treats their patients like they’re family. I will truly miss everyone here. I would highly recommend Professional Physical Therapy to anyone in need of PT services. Thank you all so very much for everything you have done for me!”

–Caroline Pendleton

–Laurie Pirrello

“I came in eight weeks ago after knee surgery. I had minimal pain but poor range of motion. Now, at my last day of therapy, I have no pain and complete range of motion restored! It was totally worth all the work, and I am so thankful for the

“Outstanding therapy! After having knee

surgery, my knee was extremely swollen and my range of motion was awful. Dr. Patt patiently guided me through a series of progressively more difficult exercises. Now, I cannot believe

the improvement! I am very happy that I worked with Dr. Patt and the other therapists and staff to complete my program. It was well worth it!”

physical therapists and all of their work getting me back to normal. Thank you to all of the staff. You’re the best!”

–John Powers

–Bob Hehn

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