Dogs are “man’s best friend.” They’ve been there for us on the rainy days, on the days we’re not feeling well enough to get out of bed, and when we’re feeling pup-tacular enough to take a walk with them. We can always rely on our four-legged friends as our support. Why are they so effective at improving our mental well-being and getting rid of loneliness?
1. Dogs Improve Our Mental Wellness
Our canines give us the encouragement to do anything! During the pandemic, their role has become even more apparent. Your dog is your cheerleader, your band crew, and your best pal. Pets, particularly dogs, can encourage us to get fresh air which can alleviate anxiety and depression.
Dogs help keep their human’s relaxed. Cuddling with your canine can help lower blood pressure and can even minimize cholesterol levels! All because they fulfill our desire to be loved and trigger our brains to release feel-good endorphins.
2. Your Four-Legged Keeps You Active
First thing in the morning, your pup-pal has to go outside and relieve themselves. By extension, you’re encouraged to see the sky and the clouds, and you immediately get a dose of nature and joy. You pup does the same for you in afternoon and at night when you’re at it again.
On walks, you’re able to say socially distant hello’s to old friends, all while walking your canine safely on the sidewalk. You’re more visible to your friends because your pooch-pal is wearing a reflective vest to allow you to be more visible to passing vehicles. Throwing a ball with your dog, going on walks or jogs, and even prepping meals for them helps create a physically active environment which improves your heart health
3. Walks Are An Excuse to Connect to Nature
Your pup loves going on walks with you. During the pandemic, we realized we couldn’t go on walks with our human friends, so we’ve discovered the best path, trails, and park to take our pooches.
How often did you notice the squirrel scaling the tree or the grasshopper hopping down the sidewalk? Your pup surely did. Dogs help us reconnect with nature by going on walks with them. The leisurely stroll allows us to look at the canopy of trees, or the cascading waterfalls, or the arch of mountains in the distance, all because your pooch was looking at you with those saucer shaped eyes to go outside.
4. Your Pup Makes You Laugh
What does your pup do that brings you joy? Do they roll on their back to expose their tummy or wag their tail at you as you toss treats in the air? Canines are the loyalest companions. They wait at the door for you to get home and lay on the rug or at your feet as you read a good book or watch TV. Your pup is always there to put a smile on your face, even when it feels like there’s nothing to smile about.
5. Dogs Keep Us Young At-Heart
Canines keep us young. Whether you own a puppy or a senior pooch, dogs are always childlike in their demeanor. They hop on the bed to lay by your side and lick the crumbs from your face. Your pup knows when you’re sad or happy and they want to be with you always! Tossing a Frisbee or playing Tug-of-War, your dog knows how to make you feel like a kid again.
Keeping Play. Keep Walking. Keeping Happy.
Canines are loyal companions. They’re here for you through thick and thin. They help keep you active, happy, and keep you company during isolation, all while being sweet and protective. There’s no better animal to have around, especially during a pandemic when human interaction is at a minimum. Dogs are the antidote to loneliness!
