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Dogs have long had special standing in the medical world. Trained to see for the blind, hear for the deaf and move for the immobilized, dogs have become indispensable companions for people with disabilities.

The NY Times is running a story about how dogs may contribute to better health. I think most pet owners would agree, and especially dog owners. It’s obvious that having a pet is soothing. They love unconditionally and they are fun to play with and generally warm our hearts. Dogs have the added benefit of potentially saving lives by warning of danger, or even helping someone out of danger like a fire. They are also more active and more than likely that will make their owners more active too. I think the healing power is in caring for them, and they for us.

I read another story where scientists are teaching dogs to sniff out cancer, and it’s working! Our furry friends may end up saving our lives in more ways than one.

Technorati Tags: Dogs, Health

There have been studies on the healing benefits of music on humans and even studies on how music effects plans. Now researchers are testing the healing properties of music on our furry friends. This would fall in the “alternative medicine” category, but good music certainly can’t hurt, and if it helps, why not try it?

The healing power of music has long been established in people. Now a handful of harpists throughout the country are harnessing that power for animals.

Alianna Boone is one of those musicians.

“The structure of the harp is considered to be the most healing instruments next to human voice,” said Boone, an Oregonian who plays for ill family pets and produced a CD “Harp Music to Soothe the Savage Beast.”

Read the full story over at MSNBC

Technorati Tags: Pets, Pet Care, Pet Health