Special Day For Man’s Best Friend (NAPSA)—“Gimmea Kiss”is a phrase that has joined dog and master in a routine of love and affection for generations. Somehow most people just feel better after a slurpy smack from a canine companion like Beau, the ten year-old golden retriever shown here. So, while you’re shopping for flowers and heart-shaped candies for your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day, don’t forget to buy something for that other love in yourlife—yourdog. Pets give constant, uncondi- tional love and havea great therapeutic effect on their owners and everyone they come in contact with. It has been shown that simply stroking a pet lowers heart rates and reduces blood pressure and anxiety levels. There’s little doubt that a pet’s calming effect improves emotional well-being too. In fact, human interaction with pets has been found to be so therapeutic, that many nursing homes have resident dogs on site or participate in visiting therapy dog programsto boost the morale of the elderly and infirm. Therapy dogs have also beenlifting spirits at Ground Zero since September 11", working with the American Red Cross to bring emotional support to families and rescue workers. It has been said that a dog can show humans more honest affection with a kiss than a man can gather through a lifetime of handshakes. Treats are a great way to show pets love and reward them for good behavior. What is better than when your buddy returns its love with a big sloppy kiss overflowing with undeniable, irresistible fresh breath? The trick is finding a fil a treat that your dog likes, that’s good for his health and doesn’t wreak havoc on his breath. According to Edward Moser, VMD, “Treats are a great way to reciprocate your dog’s affection for you. A treat made from wholesome ingredients is a healthy way to reward and reinforce your dog and provide him a nutritionally balanced snack.” If you want to see your dog’stail wag at the sight of a tasty treat that also freshens his doggie breath, consider “Gimme A Kiss” from Old Mother Hubbard, a new, natural, minty-fresh dog biscuit containing noartificial preservatives, colors or flavors. Formulated with a focus on health, “Gimme A Kiss” dog biscuits are made with “doggone” good ingredients. Oatmeal, eggs, real spearmint, parsley, apples and ground carrots—good for any dog, any time. You can show your dog how important he is to you and add a new command to his repertoire: “Gimme A Kiss!” For more information or to locate a store nearby, see www.omhpet.com.
