Centuries of developing the human animal bond has led to increased awareness of the impact and importance of animals in our society today.

The importance of animals to human civilization is well established. This symbiotic relationship was established before civilization as we know it today. It was our ancestors who noted the benefits of using animals to aid in the performance of many daily tasks. They used the superior senses of animals to make their lives easier. The sense of sight, hearing, and smell along with the speed and stamina of dogs was especially beneficial for hunter gathers. Animals were use on a larger scale to aid in hunting, farming and played a vital role in warfare. Ancient civilization with better quality animals thrived. As the relation between man and beast developed, humans started to recognize the benefit of animals as pets. The Egyptians were known to keep animals as pets. This is depicted in drawings and engravings found in the tombs of ancient Egyptians. Some ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians even worshiped animals as God. The Romans were also very fond of animals as pets, despite also sacrificing animals for entertainment and in religious rituals.

Centuries of developing the human animal bond has led to increased awareness of the impact and importance of animals in our society today. Animals and humans work to provide added security in our homes and business today. Dogs and cats have emerged as the favorite species for human companionship. Dogs also play a vital role in the security of the homeland. Through selective breeding, humans have over centuries selectively bred animals to suit our needs.

The impact of animals on civilizations across the world is undeniable; from the discovery of the wolves by our ancestors, to the use of domesticated animals today. We use animals for the protection of goods such as agriculture products to the detection of illegal narcotics and weapons crossing our borders whether by land or sea. Animals are our first line of defense.

The impact of animals on civilizations across the world is undeniable; from the discovery of the wolves by our ancestors, to the use of domesticated animals today. We use animals for the protection of goods such as agriculture products to the detection of illegal narcotics and weapons crossing our borders whether by land or sea. Animals are our first line of defense.

The impact of companion animals on the well-being of humans has long been suspected. Research has now proven the impact of companion animals on our health is even greater that we first imagined. Interacting with companion animals reduces stress hormone levels and enhances the levels of endorphins and dopamine. Dopamine and endorphins are hormones that gives us a sense of happiness and well-being.

Studies also revealed that children who were exposed to pets during infancy had fewer allergies. Elderly dog owners have fewer doctor visits per year than non-owners. Companion animals helps preserve good health and reduce healthcare cost.The well-being of man-kind is directly related to animals. Through the use of animals, humans are

capable of achieving tasks that would otherwise be difficult or impossible for us to perform. Our companionship with animals helps both our physical and mental health. Despite advancement in technology, the use of animals in our day to-day activities continues to increase. It makes sense for us to protect the health and well-being of animals by providing them the care and resources needed to thrive. Protecting animals is investing in our health and well-being.

WRITTEN BY GLYNE GREENIDGE DVM, CLS, MLT

Article originally published in Houston County Living: An Unbreakable Bond