The year has flown by, and it’s already Christmas Eve! We shall continue to take time off from the stodgier issues of health conditions of our pets and their cures and instead, as we do every Christmas, reflect a bit on the human-animal bond, as I take you through the wonders of this relationship.
Our beloved pets (companion animals) have been with us since the dawn of civilization. In the case of dogs; well, they have been our friends for over 50,000 years. Cats, on the other hand, seem to have been associated with man for only about 5,000 to 7,000 years. Interestingly enough, cat fossils have been found in Europe, Asia and Africa, but not in the Americas.
When humans began domesticating wolves thousands of years ago, it was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. Many dog lovers say their pets seem to know what their masters are thinking. 
A study in the prestigious journal Science, published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science, suggests that this line of thought might be at least partially right. Something about the process of domestication seems to have given dogs the ability to “read” certain human social behavioural patterns – something wolves and other wild animals cannot do.
Some scientists argue that, at least sociologically-speaking, dogs (not chimps) are most like humans. Chimpanzees may share many of our genes, but dogs have lived with us for so long that they offer a good model for understanding human social behaviour.
Irrespective of how we associate with animals, whether as pets or for the show arena, or as working dogs (hunters, guards, pullers of sledges or rescuers, etc.), expressions of love must be offered to them. This love of animals must not be based solely on emotion; rather, it must be an educated love.
For example, we may condemn our neighbours for starving their dogs, while we commit an equally hurtful act by overfeeding ours, especially at Christmas. Or we may abuse our animals by bathing them too often, or feeding them chocolates, grapes and spices, which are inimical to their health. To me, it makes no sense berating a child for throwing a squib near a dog while you yourself would hit a goat for eating your Hibiscus plant which hangs over the fence.
Companion animals are just that; they are our companions. Since domestication, cats and dogs have lived in close contact with humans, and we have co-existed peacefully and lovingly. And we are lucky! Any TLC which we give a companion animal is returned many times over.
Experts have proven that, in addition to being fun and fulfilling, the special friendship between animals and humans can actually benefit a person’s health. An affectionate greeting from a dog at the end of a challenging day at the office lifts our spirits and eases tensions. Your pet is good for you, both physically and mentally. Researchers have proven that the simple act of petting a cat or dog consistently lowers the blood pressure of heart patients.
Many studies have since been embarked upon which show the significance of pets in our lives. Persons on the autism spectrum have demonstrated lower levels of anxiety when petting or hugging animals. Researchers say such studies are like exploring a new frontier, and they are only touching the tip of the proverbial iceberg.
Those of us who interact daily with animals do not need to be convinced of the value of having a pet. We are happier, smile more readily, communicate better, and are more relaxed; all of which leads to improved general health – our own.
And I could not summarise that animal-human bond better than Senator George Vest, who in 1870 wrote a tribute to a dog, which I would like to share with you:
“The one absolute unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world, the one that never deserts him, the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous, is his dog. A man’s dog stands by him in prosperity and in poverty, in health and in sickness. He will sleep on the cold ground, where the wintry winds blow and the snow drives fiercely, if only he may be near his master’s side. He will kiss the hand that has no food to offer, he will lick the wounds and sores that come from an encounter with the roughness of the world. He guards the sleep of his pauper master as if he were a prince. When all other friends desert, he remains. When riches take wings and reputations fall to pieces, he is as constant in his love as the sun in its journey thru the heavens.”
Please enjoy this festive season with your family. Do extend the goodwill and benevolence to your companion animals with an abundance of TLC. Remember to provide feed and water if you must leave them for any length of time as you partake in customary revelry. If they are reared outdoors, ensure there are sufficient covered areas to protect them from direct sunlight.
Please continue to dissuade your friends and family members from using squibs and other explosive devices in any environment shared with a pet. Our animals deserve better!
