Pima Animal Care Center says it “can no longer remain silent about an ongoing problem that continues to affect Southern Arizona: Too many petless families and adults.” As a result, adoption fees on all of their animals will be $13 for the month of January.
The American Pet Products Association reported last year that only 39 percent of households across the nation own at least one dog, while 33 percent own cats.
The Care Center says that “there remains work to do, given that pet ownership has proven effective in providing companionship, warming cold laps and encouraging physical activity. Hospitals and nursing homes, well aware of the ability of animals to counteract depression and isolation, regularly turn to animals as social therapy.”
The Centers for Disease Control have identified other health benefits as well, noting pets can decrease blood pressure, triglyceride levels and cholesterol levels. For a more comprehensive list of potential benefits, please visit http://pets.webmd.com/ss/slideshow-pets-improve-your-health