Man’s And Woman’s Best Friend
Dogs and owners are unbelievably attuned to one another, in a manner that no other two species are. Our four-legged furry companion is man’s (and woman’s) best friend. The origin of this phrase dates back to the 1700’s to describe a dog’s loyalty, companionship, and close relationship to its owner. Dogs show their unconditional love. We get in return enjoyment, relaxation, elevation in mood, and a lot more. Let’s explore those benefits.
A Dog Lowers Your Blood Pressure
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. There is a direct correlation between owning a pet and lower blood pressure, according to an American Heart Association’s Pet Ownership and Cardiovascular Risk. Stroking a pet lowers your heart rate and blood pressure. At the same time it releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter in your brain that calms and makes you feel happy.
Therapy Dog Lowers Your Anxiety
People that keep their companion dog with them all the time are less likely to be lonely, anxious, or depressed. If you have been diagnosed with a disability that is treatable with animal companionship, then speak with your mental health professional. Your physician may recommend that your dog be certified as an emotional support or therapy animal. With the proper credentials your dog can then accompany you all the time, unless restricted by law. For more information, check out esaregistration.org.
Decreases Stress Levels
When you care for a dog, your emotions become more stabilized. Unconsciously, you are changing your focus from yourself to the care of your pet. Dog ownership encourages the owner to practice mindfulness, that is being attentive to the present. Did you ever notice that when you hug a close friend, you feel great? That’s because your body releases the hormone oxytocin. Oxycotin reduces stress and anxiety. Reports have shown that just hanging out with your dog releases this anti-stress hormone in your body. Does a dog also experience this same hormone release? A PBS Nova documentary Dogs Decoded discovered that blood samples taken from dogs after a petting session revealed a similar burst of oxytocin in their body as well.
Longer Longevity
Owning a dog could even extend your life, according to Professor Kerstin Uvnis-Moberg. Professor Uvnis-Moberg has been studying the role of oxytocin in creating the bond between mothers and their newborns. “If you have a dog, you are much less likely to have a heart attack, and if you have a heart attack, you are three to four times more likely to survive it if you have a dog than if you don’t.”
Increase Exercise
Your dog is the perfect workout partner. Dogs need to be walked every day, which means both of you get an opportunity get exercise on a daily basis. Playing with your dog boosts your serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that evokes calmness and relaxation.
Family Affair
Dogs are a family affair. They make your children learn some great life skills such as responsibility, security, patience, and compassion while caring for their pet. By setting examples, parents will guide their children to understand the proper techniques to care for a pet.