5 Health Benefits of Caring for (and) Your Dog
Author: Jasmine V.
There’s nothing better than having a friend you can count on. When the times get tough and life gets challenging, it’s a great feeling to be back with a furry friend who will always love you unconditionally. They remind you that you have a lot to live with, and no matter what, it’s going to be okay.
In addition to the emotional support our pets have to provide, they can benefit us in several areas of our health. Developing a bond with a dog can give you a sense of connection, responsibility, an active lifestyle, and a stronger sense of overall health. To better understand these health benefits, let’s explore together!
1. Connected company
Maintaining a close bond with your dog can guarantee you a loyal and loving companion for years to come. More specifically, when it comes to mental health, time spent with your dog can even reverse the effects of depression and loneliness.
Dogs are very sensitive to the emotions of their owners. They can feel the change happening as soon as it happens! For example, a dog might lean on you in a pinch when you’re not feeling well, or curl up next to you when you’re feeling overwhelmed—in their own way of showing support. Dogs also tend to rest somewhere under your feet or on your lap. This can be uplifting and comforting, reminding you that your poodle is ready to support, love and be by your side, every step of the way!
2. Reduce stress
Of course stress can make people feel overwhelmed and anxious, but Being with dogs lowers stress hormone cortisol, researchers find As a result, people feel happier. Petting your dog can regulate your breathing, lower your blood pressure and regulate your mental activity. When you play with your dog, your body releases two chemicals, serotonin and dopamine, both of which play a role in stress management and can improve your overall health.
3. Maintain a healthy weight
Spending quality time with your dog often means getting out and blending in. In addition to the essential outdoor walks, there are many other activities you can do with your dog, such as yoga, visiting local parks, and even swimming. Over time, your body will begin to adapt to a more active lifestyle, working the muscles that are active now. Before you know it, spending time with your furry friend will make you feel healthier!
Developing a bond with your dog as he ages creates a lifestyle in which you never have to worry about limited range of motion. Having a puppy will drive you to explore the beauty of the great outdoors while improving your body at the same time. As long as you think of your dog’s support for your health, your healthy life is guaranteed!
4. Unite against the epidemic
Because dogs spend a lot of time outdoors, they can bring all kinds of germs and bacteria home. Amazingly, this can actually have a positive impact on a pet owner’s health. These bacteria can spread to you or other pets in your home. Over time, the body’s immune system builds up its defenses against these germs, making your body less likely to get sick or infected.
For parents with babies, having a Walking your dog may reduce risk of allergies Even asthma. Research suggests this is due to a gut microbe called Lactobacillus johansson. Exposure to dogs can improve a child’s exposure to the outside world. So, regardless of age, the more time you spend with your dog, the more your immune system will improve.
5. Responsibility is reward
While owning a dog is fun and ensures a lifelong companion, caring for your puppy is undoubtedly a major responsibility. The closer you are to your dog, the more intuitively you can understand their needs and wants.
There is something satisfying about making your dog’s health and well-being a priority. It can be rewarding to know that you are not just living for yourself, but are responsible for another life. Just like humans, your dog needs routine check-ups from your veterinarian to stay as healthy as possible. In addition to routine care, your dog may become ill, injured, or have an ailment that requires more urgent care, which can result in unexpected costs.
This is where pet insurance can help. Having pet insurance is great for first-time pet owners because it covers a large portion of veterinary costs.Having insurance gives you peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to go through a more cost-effective “Plan B” to save on care in the event of a health emergency—you can provide the best care for your best friend without Will Drain Your Savings or Charge High Interest Credit Cards
only Just as important as having pet insurance is knowing how to use it! If you choose pet insurance, enroll as soon as you get your dog to minimize the risk of claim denials due to pre-existing conditions. Learn about per accident and annual limits, as well as premiums and deductibles. You can customize a plan to suit your needs, including choosing a zero-deductible plan.
the bottom line
There are more health benefits to spending quality time with your dog than we discuss in these five examples. As long as your pup is by your side, every adventure will have a positive impact on your health. Consider a prescription we could all benefit from.