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Christmas ? A celebration of the institution of family

Christmas ? A celebration of the institution of family

Date: 2022-12-23
The term family has been defined by various sociologists and anthropologists throughout the centuries. Most definitions refer to family as a universal social institution. A basic but much-needed unit in the society that provides emotional and physical care for old and young.

Definition aside, it is through family that everyone learns their values and where people first get a sense of belonging and where a consciousness is raised.The Christmas days represent this time where people are reminded of values, family and togetherness.

There is a growing global trend to consider pets as part of the family and millions of people around the world love and enjoy companion animals. Apart from companionship, pets provide a sense of security, and, a feeling of being loved. Pets become important to all family members and they do get included in family events.

Zooeyia (pronounced ZOO-ey-ah) is a recently created term, describing "the positive benefits to human health from interacting with animals". The name comes from the Greek word for animal (zoion) and health (Hygeia, the Greek goddess of health).

Research studies show that pet ownership & pet assisted therapy have some magical influence on physical and mental health and the power of the human-animal bond impacts humans regardless of their age.

Pet owners in Germany and Australia were found to have 15% fewer annual doctor visits. Other studies revealed that interacting with animals can assist with hypertension and cardiovascular diseases as well as with stress or trauma related conditions and has shown a beneficial effect on patients with Alzheimer?s, depression or ADHD for example.

Zooeyia goes beyond the benefits to an individual human. A new study conducted in selected American and Australian cities has added another dimension to pet ownership and the results indicate that companion animals also strengthen communities and develop healthy neighbourhoods. Pets facilitate social interactions and encourage cooperation and exchange ? the give-and-take among neighbours creates a sense of community.

Most rescue shelters are full and too many animals still hope to become a companion and family member. They have waited patiently and are ready to be integrated into a home. All these dogs want is someone to love and protect.

And no, a dog is not a Christmas present. It can?t be exchanged or swapped for a different colour nor can it be returned. But a dog can become a present to an individual or a whole family and it has the power to contribute to all facets of our lives.

If you are ready to adopt or foster a dog, please contact Stefanie 084 772 38 37 or Linda 082 902 4363. (Or become a volunteer or sponsor to assist with the care of these beautiful creatures.)