Last week in “Days of Our Nine Lives,” the ARF cats talked about new dogs Nala and Yale, and returning cat Indigo.

Mr. Gray

Yale: Nala was adopted last week! I hope I am soon. 

George: No doubt you will be before you know it.

Yale: I want all humans to understand why it is so advantageous to have a dog as a member of the family. 

Thomas: Let me! I just read that studies show that having a canine companion is linked to lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol and decreased triglyceride levels, which contribute to better overall cardiovascular health and fewer heart attacks.

Yale
Pepper

Bear: Cats, too! Studies have found that owning a cat also can lower your stress levels, which in turn will have a knock-on effect on a human’s risk of cardiovascular disease.

Yale: Hey! This is my announcement! Health experts recommend that adults get about two hours and 30 minutes’ worth of moderate exercise per week. Dog owners are way more likely to hit that goal. How about that, cats?

Thomas

Sadie: Well, men might want to consider that research found that women were more likely to be attracted to men with pets, with a whopping 90 percent of single women perceiving men with cats as nicer and more caring than those without.

Yale: Ooh, good one Sadie.  And researchers have found that about 40 percent of dog guardians make friends more easily, possibly because the vast majority — four in five, according to one British study — speak with other dog owners during walks. Instant friends!

Zeus

Mr. Gray: Then why wouldn’t a human consider bringing a four-legged into the family?

George

Yale: And humans need to remember that perfectly “perfect” animals of all breeds, shapes, ages and sizes are available at shelters and rescue groups. Just because an animal ends up there doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with them. They are just in need of a second chance.

Be sure to keep up with the animal antics of “Days of Our Nine Lives” each week. And please stop in to say hello to the entire adoptable cast at the ARF House, 26890 Hwy. 243 on Saturdays 10-4 and Sundays 10-2, or by appointment M-F by calling 951-659-1122. 

Creature Corner is sponsored by Carole Herman & Sandi Mathers.