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2 8 MACONMAGAZINE.COM | D E C E M B E R / J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 0 LOCAL BUZZ Leave us a little behind. Your legacy can begin today. You can create a healthy life for children in our region and you can do it with a gift that costs nothing during your lifetime. A planned gift through your will or trust makes it possible: • You can make a generous commitment while preserving your savings and cash flow • Making a bequest is easy, a simple paragraph added to your will is all it takes For more information, please contact the Navicent Health Foundation at (478) 633-7396. encouraging your generosity to transform visions into reality AC PUP SAYS PETS CAN HEAL HEARTS AND ENRICH LIVES IF YOU ARE COMMITTED to healthier living in 2020 but running a marathon or joining a gym doesn't appeal to you, would you believe adding a companion animal to your life may improve your health? It's true, and there is so much evidence to support having a pet as beneficial for every stage in life – from infants to seniors. In fact, the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology said that early exposure to animals helps children develop stronger immune systems. In addition, studies conducted by both the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institute of Health indicated that adult heart patients with pets fared better than patients without pets. Pet parents experience lower blood pressure and reduced stress, among other benefits. You can conduct your own research by petting a dog, cat or horse and watching your stress disappear. When you have a pet, you move more simply by providing basic care for them. Pets require exercise and attention, so you will get more exercise by taking a dog for a walk or playing inside with an energetic kitty. Physical health is not the only gain pets bring to their owners. The emotional benefits of having a furry family member are enormous. Speaking from my pup point of view, we offer unconditional love and believe you're the greatest human who has ever lived. That definitely pays emotional dividends as you face the challenges of life. I know of a young man who faced a very difficult time with the loss of his child. After adopting a dog, he explained to my group, Central Georgia CARES, that he learned animals can heal a broken heart. Pets are perfect for seniors who may be lonely or feel isolated. Having a dog or a cat as their constant companion can fill a void for them and give them new purpose in their lives. I've had more than one senior share with me that their pet is the reason they get out of bed every day. The key to receiving these pet perks is to have a truly close relationship with your furry family member. Spending quality time daily with your pet will show you love beyond measure. Your heart, mind and soul will be enriched and possibly even healed. There is no better medicine. – AC PUP