Dogs have been
long-loved for being mans best friend and now according to recent studies, we’ve
just gained another reason to love our fur-friends! It has been suggested that
dogs can boost our health in numerous ways – here are 5 ways having a dog can
make you happier and healthier!
1. Reduced Stress
There’s a
reason therapy dogs are so effective: spending just a few minutes with a pet
can lower anxiety and blood pressure, and increase levels of serotonin and
dopamine, two neurochemicals that play big roles in calmness and well-being. People
performing stressful tasks do better when there’s a dog around, too.
2. Companionship
We can feel
incredibly strong emotional ties to our pets; they are our friends; our
confidantes and they never judge our transgressions. People who find social
interaction difficult may build valuable relationships with an animal. Having a
dog may provide people with a sense of purpose and security which can be
crucial to fighting mental health issues such as depression as well as
providing routine.
This kind of
interaction is good for all of us and is really powerful for older people experiencing
loneliness and other difficulties.
3. Increased Social Interaction
Pets create
opportunities for better social interaction, especially if you join an animal
club or attend pet shows. Going to pet-friendly events, beaches or parks can
also help increase your social network. You could make new friends just by
taking your dog for a walk or waiting at the vet, due to the shared interest in
your pets.
As we age, it
becomes harder to get out and meet people – apparently not for dog owners.
Researchers have found that about 40 percent of dog owners make friends more
easily, possibly because the vast majority speak with other dog owners during
walks and park visits.
4. Improved Fitness Levels
Health experts
recommend that adults get about 2 hours and 30 minutes’ worth of moderate
exercise per week. A past study suggests that dog owners are more inclined to
spend more time outdoors walking as they enjoy spending time with their dogs. This
time spent walking your dog can not only be used to bond with your fur-friend
but also improve your fitness and make the most of the outdoors to help you
further develop mindfulness and relaxation.
Furthermore, it
has been noted that older adults who walked dogs experienced “lower body mass
index, fewer activities of daily living limitations, fewer doctor visits, and
more frequent moderate and vigorous exercise.”
5. Improved Heart Health
Dogs don’t just fill your heart; they actually make it stronger. Studies show that having a canine companion is linked to lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol, and decreased triglyceride levels, which contribute to better overall cardiovascular health and fewer heart attacks. Furthermore, dog owners who do have heart attacks have better survival rates following the events.
If you’d like more vet approved pet health advice, sign up to our monthly newsletter here, or visit www.vetshopaustralia.com.au/Pet-Health.
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