Your Healthy Dog Makes for a Healthier You
There’s something about owning a dog that just seems to make life a little more complete. He is loyal, caring and will love you unconditionally. But did you know that your little fur ball may provide lots of health benefits for you, too?
Heart Health
Yes, your dog loves you, and he lets you know every time you’re away for more than five minutes. However, research shows that owning a dog has more than just an emotional effect on your heart. Dog owners are much less prone to suffer from heart and circulatory problems. Also, studies show that those who have suffered from severe heart attacks have a significantly lower chance of experiencing a repeated heart attack after bringing a new canine companion into their lives.
Exercising and Your Dog
Staying physically fit in a busy world can be tough, but having four-legged friends like German Shorthaired Pointers makes it easier for us to use the two we have. Whether you take your dog to the park for a rousing game of catch, walk him around the block a few times every morning before you go to work, or have him as your best running partner, you’re burning calories and staying fit. Your heart is pumping, your bones are moving, and your muscles are working. Who knew your pup could be your personal trainer?
Fighting Allergies
We all know someone who can barely step outside during allergy season, much less be around any kind of animal. Chances are they never grew up with pets in the home. Research shows that having a dog in a home with small children introduces them to dander and other common allergens early in life and potentially desensitizes them to these allergies as they grow.
Stress Relief
Stress can be dangerous. It can increase blood pressure, slow digestion, cause anxiety, and trigger depression, just to name a few. Recent studies have shown that spending time with your dog during stressful situations promotes a more soothing and relaxing experience. The simple act of petting him can lower the heart rate. Also, the idea of coming home to a loyal and dependable companion who won’t judge you for having a bad day significantly reduces stress levels and fosters a calm disposition.
Social Interaction
Human interaction is very important to your health and well-being, and owning a dog can often make this easier and more comfortable than, say, a blind date. Dogs are excellent conversation starters and can provide a buffer between two strangers. Most dogs also have excellent intuition about their surroundings, detecting safe and dangerous situations and potentially saving you from an uncomfortable encounter.
Your dog will love you unconditionally and provide you with a loyal companionship like no other. And best of all, even though he may not have a “Dr.” title, he can also help you live a happier life and be a healthier you.
