Dogs are famous for being every man and woman’s best friend. Because of their incredible loyalty and dependable character, it’s no wonder why most dog owners treat them that way.
But Psychology Today says that dogs can play a more vital role than being your cuddle mate. There are pieces of evidence that prove that having a pet has physical benefits, ranging from increased physical activities to improved cardiovascular health. Some people have even experienced a decrease in blood pressure as well as cholesterol level.
How pets improve one’s mood
Most pet owners can attest to how happy they are the moment that their dogs great them whenever they get home. The immediate joy that comes with having pets is nothing short of amazing for them. But for people who never had pets, the benefits of having companion animals are unknown to them.
Help Guide says that aside from relaxation activities such as fasting yoga retreats, owning and caring for dogs can help reduce the stress and anxiety of a person. They also ease loneliness and even improve a person’s cardiovascular health.
Having pets can even be helpful for children, too. Caring for pets even at a young age can help kids grow up feeling more secure. Also, these kids tend to be physically active, establishing good cardiovascular habits while still young.
Pets are also an excellent companion for older adults. Dogs have the innate ability to see through your emotional state. They even try to understand what their masters are thinking or feeling.
Creating a healthier lifestyle with pets
Having a healthy lifestyle can help alleviate the symptoms of stress and anxiety. But did you know that caring for a pet will help you create healthier lifestyle changes?
Dogs require a lot of physical exercises, so even a simple activity like taking them for a walk can be rewarding when it comes to your health. Studies show that dog owners have more chances to meet their daily exercise requirements when they have a dog with them. Not only will physical activity strengthen your connection with your pet, but it will also help remove any of the behavioral problems with your dog.
Companionship is probably the best gift that your pet can give you. Having someone to be with helps ease the feeling of loneliness and isolation, which can trigger depression. Also, having someone who relies on you takes the focus away from your personal worries, especially when you don’t have someone by your side.
Lastly, pets can be a great topic when speaking with someone. Dog owners often stop and talk to each other when they bring their dogs out for a walk. They also meet new people in training classes and pet stores.
These are only a few of the things that you can look forward to when having a dog. Aside from a great de-stressor, they’re also great companions. Stroking them can lower your blood pressure and can help you feel calmer quickly too, so the next time you feel stress coming on, consider adopting a dog, and experience what it’s like to have a loyal companion all the time.
