Posted by lucie lu on February 20, 2009, at 17:21:51
In reply to Re: Pets and happiness, posted by no_rose_garden on February 20, 2009, at 1:13:03
> (((Doggies))))
>
> I wish I had one. I've been looking at emotional support animals. I don't know if I can do it though...so much time and moneys. I wish i had a doggy :(NRG (can I call you Rose?),
There are alternatives to dogs and cats, other cuddly animals that are social and gregarious enough to be good companions (and good oxytocin stimulators). We have had most types of pets over the years (fish, reptiles, rabbits, various rodents, birds, dogs, even a horse). One of the best "cuddly" pets IMO is a rabbit. House rabbits (as opposed to those kept in hutches outside) can be interesting and loving companions. They are smart, funny, have real personalities, and can form strong bonds with their owners since they are social animals with needs to connect. They adapt as easily to cats do to litter trays. They are easy to keep and costs are relatively low. They are soft and cuddly and most love to be petted for as long as you will do it. I have also heard from many people that rats (specifically, not mice) are similarly smart, loyal, trainable, and affectionate, but we haven't had one yet.
I personally still like dogs the best, but sometimes it just isn't a realistic possibility given your means and lifestyle.
Talk about off-topic... I could go on for hours about animals... Please feel free to bmail me if you want to talk about rabbits or what else might work for you in terms of getting your oxytocin levels up :)
I used to want to be a vet. Can you tell?
Lucie
poster:lucie lu
thread:881167
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20090214/msgs/881354.html