by Denise Cook

Created on: June 12, 2008

My father has had two significant strokes in as many weeks. He's in rehab now and our whole world is turned upside down. In the midst of all the turmoil of teaching him to swallow, communicate and walk again, in the back of my mind is the knowledge that he is never going to live with his dog again.

Homer (named because he was homeless when my sister found him eleven years ago) is a beautiful Australian Shepherd. He's lived with my parents at their home in South Arlington for the last eight years and it's been a happy match. Homer, not unlike his breed, lives to work for his family. As far as I can tell, his main job has been looking after the home and noisily greeting my parents every time they return, even if they've only been gone for an hour. They are mutually devoted to each other.

Last weekend I took Homer to the rehabilitation center in Arlington to see Daddy. It took a lot of coordinating with the health care staff but was well worth it. It confirmed everything I've read about dogs being good for our rehabilitation. After witnessing them greeting each other with great affection, I noticed that Daddy was using his left arm much more aggressively since the strokes so he could pet Homer each time he came to that side. Daddy also called out to Homer whenever he wandered away. Speaking has also been a challenge since the strokes and hearing him project in that way was very encouraging.

After about a half hour visit, we took Homer home and Daddy was left with a big smile on his face and joking around the way he used to. He seemed to be more relaxed and centered after the visit and resolved to work hard to get better.

Many studies have shown that pets can provide excellent social support, stress relief and other health benefits. They can improve your mood, help control blood pressure and encourage you to get out and exercise. Pets can also stave off loneliness and provide unconditional love and companionship.

It's going to be a challenging year for my family. I'm grateful for the help that Homer is going to give my father during his rehabilitation. I'm also grateful for the love, diversion and comfort my three dogs will provide for me. Anyone who has ever owned and loved a pet understands their role in emotional health. Pets offer unconditional love and attention, make us laugh, help us relax and divert us from the day-to-day stress and concerns. I think they're the world's greatest and most affordable therapists. You never need an appointment and they're really good listeners. I know I'll be seeing a lot of Dr. Rosie, Dr. Rebel and Dr. Baxter in the months to come.

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