What would you do if your primary healthcare provider told you that there was an effective treatment for many older adults that:

• reduced stress,
• helped them deal with grief and loss,
• kept them more active,
• made depression less likely,
• sometimes helped them live longer,
• made them less vulnerable to suicide, and
• often increased their feelings of personal security?

If you're like most people, you'd be pretty interested. Especially if you heard that these findings were supported by many scientific studies. Well, the treatment is available, and you don't even need a prescription. As you've guessed by now, it's called pet ownership. What should you consider when choosing a pet?

One consideration is the level of care required. Dogs tend to be some of the friendliest and most loving animals, but they need a great deal of care and attention. On the other hand, you can take care of a goldfish in a bowl in a couple of minutes, but it won't cuddle up with you. Make sure you have the house and yard space you need for the size pet you choose. Don't forget about your local animal shelters when you're ready to pick out your pet.

Another consideration is cost. Pets can be costly, especially for those on a fixed income. Think about the costs of immunizations, vet bills, neutering or spaying, and food.

Do you have any allergies that you need to consider? Many people who are allergic to dogs or cats find that they are not allergic to animals like hamsters or chinchillas.

Most people find that there is some kind of pet that they enjoy and can afford. A pet of any kind is a serious responsibility. Don't get a pet for an older friend or relative unless you've thought about what you'll do if he or she doesn't want it or can't care for it. In the same way, it's good for people to discuss issues about what might happen to pets if someone ends up in a nursing home or another facility that won't allow pets.

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