Mental Health and Dog? Are you someone who recently became a dog owner or are you considering adding a companion, to your life? If that’s the case you might be interested in the ways in which having a dog can positively influence your life.
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One aspect of owning a dog that’s particularly intriguing is how it can potentially enhance your well being. In this article we will explore the connection between humans and dogs. Delve into how having a dog can bring comfort, happiness and support to your emotional state.
It is not surprising that 98% of pet owners consider their pets to be family members. Not only are people happy in the presence of animals, but they are also healthy. In a pet owner’s survey, 74% of pet owners reported mental health improvements from pet ownership, and 75% of pet owners reported improvement in the mental health of a friend or family member from pet ownership.
You know the saying “dog is man’s best friend”. The logic behind this proverb is obvious to most dog owners. They are loyal, loving and known for their loving nature. Dogs have been helping humans in many ways for over 15,000 years, from helping hunter communities to protecting their families by becoming effective bodyguards.
Mental Health and Dog: Reasons why having a dog helps your mental health
According to NHS research, pet owners benefit from the bonds they form with their dog companions. Dogs are associated with better health outcomes after owners experience major cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.
Two studies have shown that people who have a dog live longer than those who do not.
Another health benefit associated with owning a dog is taking them for a lower body mass index, better heart health, lower cholesterol, and a normal walk associated with lower blood pressure.
They Help Reduce Depression
Having a four-legged friend who relies on you for a daily walk is a good tool to motivate people suffering from depression to get some gentle exercise. Research from the University of Manchester has found that pets play a key role in providing their owners with an exercise routine that can help boost their mood by increasing endorphin levels.
Keeping and cooling your dog with pets can also have a calming effect and help relieve your work or financial difficulties. Washington State University research has found that keeping your dog for just 10 minutes a day can have a significant effect on cortisone and oxytocin levels. Taking care of a pet will also give your day purpose and reward, and make you feel accomplished as well as valuable.
Also Read: German Shepherd Dog: One of the Easiest Dog Breed to Train
They Help Reduce Loneliness
Mental health and Dog! Dogs are great companions, they provide a sense of security and are considered essential by their owners. They are especially helpful for the elderly who suffer from loneliness. Pets reflect some of the benefits that human relationships have to your health, which can be especially helpful for people who find themselves alone.
What’s more, relationships with your pets are less prone to their ups and downs, making it easier to manage them more consistently and emotionally.
The most recommended loving dog breeds for loneliness:
- Golden Retriever
- Labrador retriever
- Pomeranian dog
- German Shepherds
Pets and people in later life
People can comfort a companion pet in later life when they are experiencing normal life stress. The dog is thought to be a stress buffer that softens the effects of adverse events on a person. With an animal at home, people with Alzheimer’s are expected to go out with less anxiety.
Happiness Boost
Dogs are masters of spreading joy through their playful antics and unwavering enthusiasm. Their zest for life is infectious, and when you witness your furry friend chasing its tail, pouncing on a squeaky toy, or performing a happy dance upon your return home, you can’t help but break into a grin. This constant source of happiness can significantly improve your overall mood and mental well-being.
Additionally, the release of endorphins, often called “feel-good hormones,” occurs when you interact with your dog. Whether it’s a friendly game of fetch, a snuggle session, or simply gazing into those soulful canine eyes, these interactions trigger the release of endorphins in both you and your furry companion. These natural mood enhancers create a positive feedback loop, elevating your spirits and reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.
Observing your dog’s sheer delight in the little things, like rolling in the grass or chasing butterflies, can remind you of the importance of savoring life’s simple pleasures. They teach us to find joy in the present moment, a valuable lesson in our fast-paced world.
Exercise Partners
Dogs are nature’s personal trainers, eagerly motivating you to maintain an active lifestyle. Their boundless energy and enthusiasm for outdoor adventures encourage regular exercise, which is essential for physical and mental health.
Daily walks with your dog become exciting journeys of exploration. As you navigate trails, parks, and neighborhoods together, you not only provide your furry friend with much-needed exercise but also soak in the beauty of nature, inhale fresh air, and engage in physical activity that boosts your cardiovascular health.
Playing fetch, chasing frisbees, or even engaging in a friendly game of tug-of-war can turn exercise into pure enjoyment. These activities release endorphins, enhancing your mood and reducing stress. Plus, sharing these moments of play strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
Routine and Responsibility
Owning a dog introduces structure and responsibility into your life, which can be highly beneficial. Dogs rely on you for their daily care, including feeding, grooming, and exercise. Establishing and maintaining these routines can be grounding, especially during uncertain or chaotic times.
Your dog’s reliance on you fosters a sense of purpose and commitment. Knowing that there’s a living being who depends on your care can motivate you to prioritize tasks and stay organized. This newfound responsibility can extend beyond your dog’s needs, positively impacting other areas of your life.
Moreover, routines associated with dog care, such as daily walks and meal times, provide a predictable rhythm to your day. This predictability can reduce stress and anxiety by creating a stable and comforting environment.
Security
Dogs have an innate protective instinct that can make you feel safer at home. They possess keen senses of smell and hearing, allowing them to detect unusual sounds or movements. This heightened awareness often translates into barking or alert behavior when they sense potential threats.
Knowing that your dog is alert and vigilant can provide a sense of security, particularly if you live alone or in a neighborhood where security concerns exist. While your dog may not be a trained guard dog, their presence and protective nature can act as a deterrent and offer peace of mind.
Additionally, the companionship of a dog can alleviate feelings of vulnerability, making your home feel like a more welcoming and secure place.
Self-worth
Dogs have a lot to maintain, but research shows that responsibility can help your mental health. Some psychologists say that you can increase self-esteem by taking ownership and applying skills to a specific task. Taking care of a dog ensures that you can take care of another creature and yourself.
If you love dogs, can’t stick to it or try dog sit! Sites and apps like Rover.com allow you to do everything from short walks and check-ins to daycare and dog boarding. Give it a try. Because dogs can make you feel good, but responsibilities in a human-dog relationship can provide significant structural and social benefits that reduce the burden of depression.
What is the reason behind dogs being beneficial for alleviating anxiety?
Dogs are like furry little superheroes to help with anxiety! A big reason is that spending time with a dog makes you happier. When you pet or play with a dog, your brain releases “feel-good” chemicals like oxytocin and serotonin. These chemicals help calm your nerves and make you feel more relaxed.
Also, dogs are excellent listeners. When you talk to them, they don’t judge or talk back – they just wag their tails and blend in with you. It makes you feel less alone and more understood, which can be very comforting when you’re anxious.
Plus, dogs need daily exercise, so they encourage you to get up, go outside, and move around. Exercise is another excellent way to reduce anxiety because it releases stress and tension.
So, in general terms, dogs are anxiety-busters because they bring joy, companionship, and exercise into your life, making you feel better overall.
How do pets contribute to managing depression?
Pets, particularly dogs and cats, can be incredible allies in managing depression. They offer companionship, routine, and a unique form of emotional support that can make a significant difference in the lives of those struggling with depression. Let’s explore how pets contribute to managing depression through a real-life scenario:
Scenario: Meet Sarah and Her Cat, Whiskers
Sarah had been battling depression for several years. She often found herself overwhelmed by feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Simple daily tasks felt like insurmountable mountains, and she frequently isolated herself from friends and family. It seemed as if a cloud of darkness hung over her life.
One day, Sarah decided to adopt a cat named Whiskers from a local animal shelter. She had heard about the potential benefits of pet companionship for mental health and thought it was worth a try. Little did she know just how much Whiskers would transform her life.
1. Companionship and Understanding:
Whiskers quickly became Sarah’s constant companion. Whether she was watching TV, reading a book, or simply sitting quietly, Whiskers was by her side. His presence alone provided a sense of comfort and reassurance. When Sarah felt the weight of depression pressing down on her, she would stroke Whiskers’ soft fur and talk to him about her feelings. While Whiskers couldn’t offer words of advice, his attentive gaze and gentle purring communicated understanding and empathy, making Sarah feel less alone in her struggles.
2. Routine and Responsibility:
Caring for Whiskers introduced a sense of routine and responsibility into Sarah’s life. She had to feed him, clean his litter box, and ensure he received regular veterinary care. These daily tasks gave her a reason to get out of bed each morning, even on the toughest days. Establishing this routine provided structure and purpose, which were often missing during her bouts of depression.
3. Physical Activity:
Whiskers, being an energetic cat, needed play and exercise. Sarah would engage in interactive play sessions with him, using feather toys and laser pointers. These playful moments not only entertained Whiskers but also got Sarah moving and active. Physical activity is known to trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, which helped Sarah combat the persistent feelings of sadness that often accompanied depression.
4. Emotional Outlet:
As Sarah continued to bond with Whiskers, she found herself sharing her thoughts and emotions with him. Depression often made it challenging for her to open up to friends or family, but Whiskers was a nonjudgmental listener. She could talk to him without fear of criticism or misunderstanding. Expressing her feelings, even to a feline friend, allowed her to release pent-up emotions and find moments of relief.
5. A Reason to Keep Going:
Perhaps the most remarkable change was how Whiskers gave Sarah a reason to keep going, even during her darkest moments. Knowing that this little cat depended on her for love and care provided a powerful motivation to push through the fog of depression. On days when getting out of bed seemed impossible, Sarah would remind herself that Whiskers needed her, and that simple fact was often enough to muster the strength to face the day.
Over time, Sarah’s bond with Whiskers deepened, and her depression began to lift. While Whiskers couldn’t offer a cure, his presence, companionship, and the routine he brought into Sarah’s life played a vital role in helping her manage her depression. Their story is a powerful testament to the healing potential of the human-animal bond, demonstrating that sometimes, a furry friend can make all the difference in the world for someone struggling with depression.
Mental Health and Dog: Dogs bring joy into your life and frustration often does not match the unconditional love they offer.
