Though I feel like my dog is the one saving my life, I know doctors are the real reason why I’m still here, why my heart continued beating, and my lungs continued breathing while my body was self-destructing. But doctors around the world are slowly realizing and respecting the incredible healing power of pets. Dr. Finkelstein agrees, stating, “Dogs can’t remove our appendix. But, their love, devotion, endless kindness can provide great relief when we need it.” I’ve come across doctors who regularly prescribe pet therapy to their patients, and doctors who bring their own dogs with them to patients’ appointments. I just spoke to another stroke survivor who attributes all of her strength to her beloved cats. There is definitely some truth to the magic of pets.

For more on this story, visit: Can Dogs Help Some Patients More Than Docs? | Harshada Rajani.