According to data obtained by Swedish scientists, dog owners live longer. This is good news for anyone who has a pet: a dog is not only man's best friend, but also a key to achieving longevity.
Dogs force people to take regular walks in the fresh air.
Dog owners spend a lot of time outside, walking their pets daily. Dogs need to be taken outside at least twice a day, if not more often, to relieve themselves and get some exercise. Walks are necessary at any time of year, regardless of weather conditions.
This necessity has a beneficial effect on a person's overall well-being. Regularly spending time outdoors in winter helps to harden the body and strengthens the immune system. The body becomes less susceptible to various viruses, and fresh air fills the lungs with oxygen and recharges the body with energy.
Walking is beneficial for the cardiovascular system and is recommended for people of all ages. It reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke and helps with high blood pressure. Furthermore, this type of exercise improves metabolism and helps burn excess weight.
Dog owners move more
Physical activity is essential for everyone, especially those with sedentary jobs. Dog owners move more, walking longer distances. They play with their pets, bend down to throw them a ball or stick, and clean up after themselves. These activities can replace daily exercise.
The saying that movement is life is probably familiar to everyone. Dogs love walks. Having a four-legged friend in the house mobilizes their owner's willpower. No matter how lazy you are, you still need to get up from the comfortable couch and go for a walk.
Dogs can reduce their owners' stress levels.
Stress affects many people not only at work but also at home. It weakens the body's defenses, leading to frequent colds, digestive problems, heart problems, and other issues. But living with a dog helps reduce stress levels.
It's long been known that interaction with animals is beneficial for the nervous system. Pet therapy is based on this principle. And constant interaction with a pet is valuable for both children and adults. The empathy of these animals softens any negativity in life. A furry friend's sincere joy upon returning home, licking your face, and eagerness to look into your eyes—all these expressions of love make you feel happier.
Petting and talking to a pet have been proven to have a calming effect and lower blood pressure. This means stroke prevention is possible without medication.
Dogs don't let you get bored from loneliness
Dogs can be considered an excellent antidepressant. Communication with a pet can help alleviate the blues. A person will never feel lonely if they have such a devoted and affectionate friend, always ready to listen. It's no wonder many people love talking to their dogs.
Moreover, dog owners are better socializers. They often meet and interact with each other, as they share a common interest. They organize walks together, discuss training principles and care aspects, and share advice and experiences. This is especially important for the elderly, who rarely receive visits from family. Depression is less of a concern if you have a dog, and especially if you have more than one. Thanks to their influence, insomnia and anxiety can be alleviated.
Dogs amuse their owners
Everyone needs a little positivity in life, and dogs give their owners plenty of it. These playful animals can make even the most somber and serious person laugh. They fetch toys, expecting to be played with, offer their muzzles for petting, and climb into their owner's lap.
Living with such a pet increases dopamine and serotonin levels in the blood. These feel-good hormones are responsible for our mood and well-being. Having them in sufficient quantities helps us better cope with difficult situations. They do the following:
- increase blood flow;
- regulate the speed of thinking;
- increase muscle tone;
- reduce the intensity of pain;
- activate vital forces.
These are the benefits of getting a dog. By taking on the responsibility of caring for a living creature, you gain much more in return than just a boredom reliever. Dogs not only give you love but also help improve your health.
