One of the healtiest choices you can make (IMO)...

... Is getting a pet.

Here are 27 reasons why.

I know I've said before that my dog has gotten me off the couch more often then I care to admit, but there are other things she does for me too.  She may help with my blood pressure, keep me from being depressed and she gives me something to care for and my cat might be keeping my heart healthy!

If you have children, studies show that if they grow up with pets they are less likely to develop allergies - this might be why I have none.

Your overall health is important and I really think having a pet is a big help with that.

Can't have a pet?  I've been there!  You can volunteer to be a dog walker at your local SPCA or shelter - exercise for you and the dog gets out of his or her cage for an hour.  I volunteered before we got Layla and I found myself going every single day, this is why we went and got our own dog.  =)

Seriously, go down to your local shelter right now and volunteer to walk dogs or play with the cats OR adopt one!  There are 1000's of animals waiting for their forever homes right now (some of them won't make it) so don't shop, adopt!  And get healthier while you're saving a life.  <3

RIP, Lennox

 BOYCOTT IRELAND

Let them know how you feel!

Do you have a dog?

No?  I would suggest getting one.  They really help you get your bum off the couch.

I have a 2 year old Boarder Collie/Husky/Black Lab/Pit Bull (I'm serious) and she is full of energy so I'm forced to take her out for long walks or swimming or a ball throw.

Tonight after dinner I was sitting on my couch watching "Love it or List it" thinking how awesome sweat pants would be when I looked over at Layla who was tapping her paw in anticipation of her walk.  So off we went.  I'm lucky because I live 4 blocks from a lake with an off leash area so we walk there, play with the other dogs, walk around he lake and then head home.  We were out for well over an hour and I gotta say how much better I feel having gone for a walk vs. sitting on my couch watching crap TV.

Good news... There are 1000's of dogs waiting to be adopted RIGHT NOW! =)  So go get one and go for a walk.  I know some of the best spots around Vancouver, just ask.