University of Maryland Pets & BP Study

Richard volunteered to be a subject for a study conducted by nurse researchers at the University of Maryland. The study is looking at people's blood pressure during normal activities when their pet is and is not with them.

Basically, he is wearing a portable BP monitor today for 24 hours and completing an "activity diary". He will do this again in one month and 3 months.

I think they may still need subjects if anyone is interested. You must be 50 or older and not taking any blood thinners. (Richard was recruited at the Dog Day Afternoon event. He had that "over 50" look.) Each time you return the monitor, you'll get a $50 gift card (which Richard says he will probably decline since he doesn't think he's a "good subject" because he doesn't have high BP. I think I will tell him otherwise. I like gift cards.) For more info, call Sue Hall at 410-206-8161.