Pet experts say there are benefits to owning a pet

Studies have shown there are many benefits to having a pet. "There are many scientific studies that have found that pets can benefit us both physically and emotionally," said Leilani Fratis, CEO of Placer Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and with the organization for 20 years. "They can help us overcome loneliness, feelings of anxiety and help reduce blood pressure by the mere act of petting them. In general, we believe that pets just make life better." Fratis said the most fulfilling part of her job is seeing the excitement in people's eyes as they find "their love of a lifetime" at Placer SPCA. Medical professionals agree that pets are beneficial. "Pets offer a wealth of unconditional love to our pediatric patients," said Dr. Jennica Jenkins, Blue Sky Counseling Center pediatric specialist in Rocklin. "Animal care teaches children responsibility and increases social skills and emotional development of empathy." Benjamim Paige of Roseville has had his pug, Bruno, for three years. Paige got him shortly after he returned home from five and a half years in the Army. Throughout his military service, Paige was stationed in places such as Germany, Qatar and Kosovo, where he trained K-9 military dogs. "I've always liked dogs," Paige said. "Someone said a dog is a man's best friend and I couldn't agree more. Bruno is my best friend." After his time in the service, Paige said, he experiences anxiety but Bruno helps him get through that. After returning home from the Army, Paige moved to the Bay Area to attend San Francisco State University. There, he was alone but he said Bruno "helped make the adjustment a lot easier." "He's a great companion. I can talk to him," Paige said, "and he forces me to get out of the house more. I can't imagine life without him."