I can't say for certain, but I have a chihu... name Lola, another one named Tinka, and a Pit Bull named LuLu.

Lola and Lulu are beside me always on days that I don't feel well. Lola sleeps in the bed with me and hubby. Lulu would love to but she is too big.

When I feel really down or I can't move my hands very much, it seems that having that soft body next to me is comforting.

I have often heard that animals help those in nursing homes. I really believe this to be true. I know that having my pets around helps take my mind off of the aches and pains. I have also heard that animals help lower your blood pressure and stress hormones in the body.

Both of these benefits are good for RA. I hope that you continue to love your pet. There may not be any specific proof of RA help, but if you feel that your pet helps, you are probably like I am and know that it is true.

The answer to your question is yes a dog can help. The fact that you are forced to walk him is oil to your aching joints. Animals just have a way of knowing how we are feeling, especially when we are ailing or sad. They are a great source of comfort. My beloved Sammy, my apricot poodle of 11 years passed on 4 months ago and it is still hard without him.

I have to say yes, that an animal helps. I have 3 cats and they keep me entertained. If they aren't running thru the house at break neck speed, they are "stalking" a toy mouse. On the nights that my arthritis is bad I find all 3 cats wrapped around me as if protecting me or sensing the pain I am in. I couldn't make it thru the day without my pets. Jamie.

I love, love, love my lil Tucker :) He is 7lbs of soft, lovable, toy poodle cuddles. He encourages me to walk and snuggles down with me when I need rest...my lil dog is the best! Got me some kitty cats, too. They just like to remind me of how lovely life can be, as they let us live with them...lol

My personal opinion,is that a dog or cat,helps immensley with health and other issues..since I am the pround owner of 3 dogs,one cat,and awatind a new puppy(not mine,I dont breed..since I did so much rescue,opened my eyes to a whole nother world,another story)
Anyway,from depression,to osteo,to RA,and just life in general..pets are indeed very therapeutic,and they generally enjoy that role as much as we do..:)
peace,and health..Judi

OH YES!!! I have 8 horses, 3 dogs and 5 cats!! The cats are outdoor only. But the dogs come in in the evenings and Gauge, my 30# red heeler who is only 8 months old, is my best friend and snuggles with me all the time! When I have to call it quits for the day, she is ready to snuggle next to me!
My horses and cats give me a reason to go outside! Some days, I just walk around and take pictures. I love taking pictures of my animals (kids). I also love to ride. I barrel race. Man, if that is not motivation, I dont know what is!!

I think having a dog is great! I have a yellow lab and a mix (smaller dog). They both love being loved. My little one cuddles with me at night and I have even cried to him and he just licks me. When I feel horrible, they love me unconditionally!

Definately think that pets do help i have a really bouncy mad little jack russell terrier who is called Holly she's alway ready for a cuddle though i do have to get her out of the habit of sleeping across my ankles at night as i've nearly kicked her out of the bed when they hurt. She is totally my baby and i'd be lost without her.

No question about it - animals are the best for RA. I have a yellow lab, Buttercup and two cats (Sofia and Kit). Even on the days that my hands are too stiff to bend, ,they're ok with my just passing my stiffened hand over their heads. If I can do better than that, even better. A few times I had trouble opening their food cans, but my son was able to help me out so we could get them fed. They are such loves. Buttercup comes to me for pets and the cats love to come for cuddles and lab time. Their purring always soothes me. I think everyone with RA (yes, even those with some allergies) could benefit from a pet.

Lynne

My two boston terriers Otis and Pierre, really help lift my mood when I am feeling down about RA, they also force me out of the house. Otis and Pierre aren't too shabby in the snuggling department either!

My cat makes everything beter. When I'm huting and stiff I still pet him, but he makes it easyer. It's like he knows. Even in pain he can make me smile. I still have to feed him and give him water no mater how I feel. it gets me moving, and thats good. I cant't pick him up on my bad days but he'll come up to be petted though. He is my comfort and my baby.

I have 2 cats - they're definitely spirit lifters and stress soothers. And when it's cold out and I'm achey, they know to jump on my lap and warm the sore bones up.

I think pets are the best if you look at my pictures you can see mine would be lost without them even my fish (LOL)

I just don't know what I'd do without my cat!

Getting Polly, my blue point persian is the best thing I have ever done. She senses when I am having good or bad days, and anyone who says animals can't do this - well I will stand up straight, look you in the face and tell you you are wrong!!! Just having her come and sit on me and purr is the best feeling. To know I am making her happy lifts me up when I feel at my lowest!!! Forget your pred or your mtx.. a pet is your route to recovery!