[ScooterBug]

When I was diagnosed back in 2006 I lived in a small apartment by myself. I was always down because I came home to no one everyday. Yea, family and friends would stop by and what not ... but dinners were always alone in front of the TV and it sucked for me!!

I was told to invest in a pet. At that time I went and adopted Lynx my cat and almost a year later also adopted Sox my other cat. Best investment hands down!! I absolutely love my cats!!

Today I am doggy-sitting for a friend of mine so my house is packed with 2 cats and now 2 dogs (Lola and Brody). It made me think of when I got Lynx for the first time and how it changed my life.

Anyone else here have pets and do they feel the same way? If I am down, Sox cuddles up with me and Lynx is my "bodyguard" (he is always near me and wont let anyone come near unless I want them to).

What are your experiences with pets?

[Direction]

Yes to pets...I've been mostly a cat lover...but I have had a dog for the last 3 years...

[Beholden]

Yes to pets. The dog we currently have is the one that has been the best for ME. Most of the others were just a dog, even though I liked them, I didn't just love them the way I love this guy!

Funny, isn't it how that works out. He was from a shelter so it was like he needed me and now I need him. He keeps me walking, which is great for both of us. He keeps me from thinking so much about just me or a problem I might be having. He is always there for me with a wagging tail or a doggie smile or a big wet kiss when I least expect or deserve it!

[Gently1]

There is a rumor going around that if your dr prescribes a pet for your health- companion animal, that landlords can not refuse.
I hope it is true.
When I was my least active, fostering the mother cat and kittens got me going through some of my most painful days. Did not take away the pain but a distraction.

As simple as sitting and watching the antics of kittens did create a smile.
My own cats, most of the time treat me as heated furniture, but my one will not leave me alone when I am really low or stressed.

In Calgary, Canada it is very difficult to find any landlord that allows pets, even in senior independant apartments. Who would benefit greatly for having another purpose.

I have my two cat's and 4 foster cats, the most at one time was 10, (6 kittens)

[sugahorse1]

My dog was, but she now lives with my parents. My horses are the ones that help me switch off, and help me through the various episodes

[blueoctober]

My horse gives me the motivation to manage my illness because if I didn't have my career I couldn't afford to have him. Being out at the stables is an instant mood lifter.

[ScooterBug]

I found a cool site with a bunch of Health Benefits with just owning a cat: http://mritechnicianschools.net/2010...-owning-a-cat/

I found it very interesting ... I think I will give my cats some tuna as a thank you tonight.

[Direction]

Originally Posted by Gently1

There is a rumor going around that if your dr prescribes a pet for your health- companion animal, that landlords can not refuse.
I hope it is true.

In the US they can refuse, but potentially open themselves to a lawsuit that is much more painful then allowing. I worked in property management we had 2-3 cats "prescribed" for residents. Our company policy that if they had a prescription or letter from a doctor, that the animal would be allowed. I had a friend from group I told this to and the owner accepted it, also.

I got a pug two years ago, Chin-Sui. I moved into low income house an wasn't able to bring him. I really needed a nicer place to live and I'm on disability with kids, so I couldn't turn it down. My boyfriend took my dog to live with him. I still get to see him all the time, but it really isn't the same. I miss him lots.

(((((Anika)))))

So, since no one's mentioned them yet... Guinea Pig! We have one that BF brought home one night as a surprise (surprise pets - generally not a good idea, right?!) She was so young, but we hang out together all the time, so she is VERY well socialized and never fails to bring a smile with her antics and snuggling. (And she grew up watching Monk dvds, so she is very tidy, lol!)

I'll grant that they don't live as long as dogs or cats, but, still an excellent pet. (I'd previously rescued a couple, so BF knew how I love them and already knew how to take good care of.)

Direction, perhaps you know... When apartments say "no pets" they are speaking of dogs and cats, right? I'm not anticipating any problem with a piggie - after all, she is either in her spacious enclosure or hanging out with us on our couch - no potential for apartment damage or neighbor annoyance. Am I making a corrrect assumption? Because if I need a doctor's note, by God, I'll get one!

[Gently1]

Originally Posted by Direction

In the US they can refuse, but potentially open themselves to a lawsuit that is much more painful then allowing. I worked in property management we had 2-3 cats "prescribed" for residents. Our company policy that if they had a prescription or letter from a doctor, that the animal would be allowed. I had a friend from group I told this to and the owner accepted it, also.

You know, I will pass this on to my friend. She is in a building that used to allow cats/dogs and then the rules changed and the only pets were the ones grandfathered in, but replacements were not allowed.
thank you for your sharing your experience.
G

[Direction]

Originally Posted by Innerzone

...When apartments say "no pets" they are speaking of dogs and cats, right? I'm not anticipating any problem with a piggie - after all, she is either in her spacious enclosure or hanging out with us on our couch - no potential for apartment damage or neighbor annoyance. Am I making a corrrect assumption? Because if I need a doctor's note, by God, I'll get one!

Typically "no pets" will mean dogs, cats, and exotics. Most times little guys like yours don't hit the radar...same with birds and fish.

It is always best to get your critters ok'd, so there is no potential confusion or problems down the road.

If your in an apartment community where they are regulary leasing apartments, you can simply call (or have a friend call) and let them know you are looking for an apartment and want to know if a guinea pig is alright. This will keep you safe in case the answer is a no...