SCIENTIFIC STUDIES
Recent studies show that the bond between people and dogs has a foundational scientific benefit to the quality of human life. Scientists are working to uncover the mental and physical health benefits of cuddling with a furry buddy.
Many dogs understand the words people use and their emotional state. Dogs are also superb at interpreting our gestures, unspoken body language, and even our conversation tone. A fur buddy can look into your eyes and gauge your emotional state, and feelings. Some will try to understand your thoughts. They are certainly testing for a near term walk or treat too!
If you are looking for options to reduce stress, anxiety, and encouraging exercise and playfulness, then a dog is the right choice. Heck taking a daily walk with a purpose can help your cardiovascular health without breaking a sweat. Older dog owners are more active and involved in day-to-day activities. This is especially true when a person has lost someone close.
RESPONSIBILITY LESSONS
Caring for a dog helps children grow up more secure and active while learning the lessons of responsibility. These life lessons can help positively shape the character of children. The memories created when a dog shares time and space with a child, will last a lifetime. The unconditional love of dogs toward their humans gives a tangible joy you cannot get from any bottle or any device.
Some of the measurable health benefits include:
- People are less depressed when they feel wanted and needed.
- Dogs adopted from a shelter allow people with borderline hypertension to significantly reduce their blood pressure, especially when they adopted dogs from a shelter.
- Interacting with your dog by playing fetch or other easy games, elevates levels of serotonin and dopamine which help people unwind and remain calm.
- Studies find dog owners have lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which are heart disease indicators.
- Recovering after a heart attack, patients survive longer when they have a furry friend.
- People over 65 make fewer doctor visits when they have a dog in their lives.
- Create a sense of purpose for people.
- Open the doors to a new community of activity, especially with the advent of local doggy parks.
BENEFITS OF TOUCH
One of the reasons for these therapeutic results is our basic human need for touch. The mutual affection between dogs and people also has long-range positive benefits. These recently studied groups include mentally and physically challenged individuals.
You can readily do online research to help identify the right puppy or dog to add to your life. Some animal shelters will permit you to come in and visit with prospective fur buddies to help with introductions. The experts there can also provide tips on the proper caring, feeding, and medical needs of your future pet.
Photo attributions in order of appearance
Pixabay contributor https://www.instagram.com/stephencphotog/
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