Pets helping people: Companion animals can help patients recover both physically and mentally.

Byline: Veronica Nett

Jul. 10--In January 2003, Elizabeth Miller's life came to a standstill after the fatal drug overdose of her boyfriend of eight years. He was in rehab at the time of his death. She had just moved into an apartment the two planned to share. Emotionally distraught, Miller, 37, from St. Albans, began attending therapy sessions at the Prestera Center for Mental Health Services in Charleston. The center, part of a statewide community program, offers treatment and programs for behavioral health care and substance abuse. Her counselor recommended she get a pet to serve as an emotional companion and help her through her loss.

Pets help to distract people from their worries, make them feel more secure, lower blood pressure, encourage physical activity and …