Staying healthy both mentally and physically should be a priority for everyone. While that can be easier said than done, it is possible. There are many simple and easy ways to accomplish optimum health, physical and mental, gradually so it can be easier to comply and make part of your routine. A good start would be to examine your diet, could it be healthier? Increasing the amount of movement (exercise) you do in a day by 15-20 minutes will help many aspects of your health. Is there a new hobby that you could try to meet people or keep you busy? There’s one great way to accomplish all these, adopt a dog!
For many people, pets are family. They bring us joy, happiness, comfort and companionship. Dogs specifically have been proven to improve a person’s overall health in many ways – reduce stress, anxiety and depression, encourage social interaction, ease loneliness, improve fitness and give us a sense of purpose. Having a furry friend at home waiting for you has been proven to benefit your health, both mentally and physically.
If you have a dog, it’s no surprise to you to hear of these benefits, you know first-hand! Spread the word, these are some great benefits to having a dog!
Dogs Make Us Feel Less Alone
Dogs offer unconditional love, emotional support and unlimited cuddles. Dogs can be there for you when no one else can. They can be a great sounding board, a distraction from your troubles and won’t pass judgement.
Dogs Are Good for Your Heart
Dogs can help you to live longer. Many studies have revealed that dog owners have lower blood pressure and their responses to stressful situations are improved. The wonderful bond between dogs and humans reduces stress, a major cause of cardiovascular problems.
Dogs Help You Stop Stressing Out
A dog can help ease your worries and offer comfort in times of stress. Dogs have been proven to help relieve stress and anxiety; the simple act of petting a dog for just 10 minutes has a significant impact on your blood pressure, heart rate, and can even relax tense muscles. It’s been shown to lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone.
Dogs Can Help Us Cope in Times of Crisis
Therapy dogs, service dogs and emotional support dogs have been essential to the physiological and psychological health of those that have gone through crises, especially military veterans with PTSD. Service dogs have been shown to reduce the symptoms of PTSD and improve coping skills.
Dogs Encourage Movement
Try as you may but dogs don’t like to sit still, they need to move and love to play. They enjoy walks and play time outdoors. Since dogs are pack animals, they love interaction and need it. Dog owners will spend on average 5 hours a week walking their dogs. Those without dogs are less than half that!
Dogs Make You More Attractive
Your dog makes you more likeable and attractive! People that have dogs appear to be more relaxed and happier, which are qualities that draw others to them.
Dogs Make Us More Social
Being out and about with a dog can make you more approachable and give people a conversation starter. Dog meet up groups whether it be by breed or a sport provide excellent opportunities to meet and form new friendships with people that have similar interests.
Dogs Make Us Happier
Most owners would agree that having a dog can improve your mood on even the gloomiest of days. Their unconditional love, care and needs can fill us with purpose. Their antics keep us entertained and can make a smile or a laugh come out of nowhere. And without a doubt, a dog can ease feelings of loneliness.
Dogs Can Have Positive Effects on Seniors
Due to the essential social and emotional support that dogs give us; they make a great companion for the senior citizen demographic. Pet therapy can help improve cognitive function, increase activity, give them a sense of purpose and can calm some agitated behaviors seen in dementia patients.
Even though the responsibility of owning a dog can seem overwhelming, the benefits a dog can provide are truly worth it. They are a great way to add structure to your daily routine. Routines that include daily walks, healthy meals and active playtime are beneficial both physically and mentally.
Here’s a link to another article about the health benefits of owning a dog. It truly is amazing how many health benefits there are!