We often hear from childhood that a dog is our best friend. But these loyal animals can be more than just companions for lonely people or playmates for kids. Here are five reasons to get a dog.
Swedish scientists have discovered that dog owners are 23% less likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease compared to those who don’t own a dog. Professor Tove Fall, a veterinarian and epidemiologist who led the study, shared that over 12 years, experts compared many factors in the lives of 3.4 million people aged 40 to 80.
Earlier research had noted a link between lower heart disease rates and dog ownership but couldn’t prove it. Before Tove Fall’s study, it was assumed that not only dogs but cats and goldfish might have similar effects on their owners’ wellbeing. However, Swedish experts have confirmed that having a dog encourages a healthy lifestyle and keeps the mood upbeat. Tove Fall hopes the research helps people realize just how beneficial dogs can be.
Given the significant role dogs play in their owners’ health, it’s essential to keep them safe. Getting pet insurance is a good idea because pets can have accidents or fall ill unexpectedly.
Dogs are active pets that need regular walks and playtime. This means dog owners are naturally more physically active every day, regardless of the weather. For instance, Professor Fall mentions running 10 km daily with her German Shorthaired Pointer. Regular movement and exercise are key to maintaining both physical and mental health.
Even if your schedule is tight, you can still take your dog shopping, as there are many pet-friendly stores nowadays. Nearly everywhere, you can find beauty salons for animals, veterinary clinics, pet shops, parks, and even bars that welcome pets.
The American Heart Association states that 54% more dog owners meet the recommended activity level of two and a half hours per day compared to those without a pet. Dog owners typically have lower levels of triglycerides and cholesterol, and their blood pressure tends to normalize. They also recover better from heart attacks and have a reduced risk of dying within a year post-attack compared to non-pet owners.
Doctors also find that lonely individuals in hospitals recover faster if they have a beloved dog waiting for them at home. Dogs help people calm down and manage depression, bringing a peaceful state within 15-30 minutes of interaction. Dog owners are generally less anxious and handle stress better, with lower blood pressure spikes and quicker recovery of normal heart rates in stressful situations.
A dog’s presence offers a sense of security, making people feel more relaxed and calm. Although some parents of young children may refuse to have a dog because of cleanliness concerns, having dog hair in the home actually reduces the risk of asthma, animal allergies, and eczema in children.
According to Dr. Tolly Epstein from the University of Cincinnati, a child with a known allergy to dogs is less likely to suffer from eczema if there is a dog in the house. Moreover, children in families with dogs tend to catch colds or viral infections less frequently.
Having a dog at home also teaches kids to take responsibility for another living being, nurturing attentiveness and kindness towards animals and people.
Dogs help people tackle loneliness by not just being companions but also by facilitating new friendships for their owners. Humans are social creatures, and interaction makes us happier, even if we think we prefer solitude. Happier people generally feel better and fall ill less often.
Therefore, a dog can be a perfect reason to strike up a conversation with another dog owner. Common questions about the breed or compliments about a pet can help people connect and build new friendships.