Pet dogs can boost health
Q: We’re thinking about getting a dog. How are they good for your health? A:
People with dogs know the benefits of pet ownership. The love, trust and loyalty shown by your canine companions, coupled with their unbridled enthusiasm on your return home each day, is hard to put into words.
There’s another plus of having a dog by your side: It improves your overall physical and mental health. Here’s how.
Dogs force you to get up and move. One study found that dog owners are more likely to report regular physical activity than people without dogs.
Activities associated with dog ownership, like feeding, grooming and playing, all increase physical activity levels. Moving around improves blood flow, induces muscle contraction and reduces joint stiffness.
Dogs also require regular exercise. In addition to a typical walk, you can work hiking and running into your outings with your dog, depending on its breed. People who regularly participate in aerobic exercise have improved blood pressure, reduced blood sugar levels, better-controlled weight and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Other studies show that exercise can improve depression and anxiety. Over time, exercise will strengthen your muscles, bones and joints.
When selecting a new dog, take note of its energy levels and exercise requirements. It’s best when your activity levels match that of your canine buddy.
Dogs get you moving: Dogs help your weight:
Exercise burns calories and helps you maintain a healthy weight. In one study, adults who regularly walked their dogs were less likely to be obese than those who did not walk dogs. The same research found that dog owners also are more likely to report a healthy diet and blood sugar at ideal levels. Walking for 30 minutes a day reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, osteoporosis, colon and breast cancers, and Type 2 diabetes.
That 30 minutes of light-to-moderate dog walking also can help you achieve deeper sleep. Clinicians say adults should aim for 150 minutes of exercise a week.
Dogs promote connection:
Owning a dog has been linked to better mental health and a lower perception of social isolation, which can reduce the risk of heart attacks and cognitive issues. Being socially isolated is a risk factor for worse health outcomes and premature death. Dog owners interact more with other people, such as other dog owners and people they encounter on walks, and are less likely to experience depression.
For remote workers, pets can help with mental health in three ways — by reducing work-related stress, managing anxiety and combating loneliness.
First, two out of 3 employees say work stresses them out, and 40% say their job gets in the way of their health. Pets in the workplace or at home, reduce stress and improve employee satisfaction.
Second, with the rise in work-from-home jobs, more people are struggling with mental health. Pets can provide the support once found in the office.
Lastly, the bond with pets helps people feel less alone. Owners can touch, see, hear or talk to their companion animals, which brings happiness, connection and physical contact.
Welcoming a dog into your home is a big decision, and you should carefully consider the responsibilities. But you also should consider the many health benefits that come from dog ownership.