Friday was World Meditation Day, a good reminder that we need to take more time out to look after our wellbeing.
But as pet owners, we’ve got the perfect tool to help care for both our physical and mental health… our dogs!
Our darling dogs keep us fit, provide great company, and just seem to know exactly when we need one of their big furry cuddles the most.
They really are our best friends, a real tonic amidst our sometimes busy and stressful lives.
Not convinced? Here are nine reasons why we think we’re better off with our four-legged friends in our lives.
They keep us fit
Going out for a long walk can sometimes seem like a chore, especially when the weather isn’t exactly inviting.
But with our dogs needing plenty of exercise, we have no choice but to brave all conditions to make sure they’re getting their daily dose of walkies.
What’s good for them is good for us.
Dogs give us a routine
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While it sometimes might be tempting to hit the snooze button and grab those few extra minutes, having our dogs gives us a real sense of routine.
They need feeding at certain times, daily walks, visits to the vet, playtime…our dogs give us a reason to get up in the morning, a real purpose.
They are the best company
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Something we’ve realised even more so during the past year with many people experiencing periods of isolation. Our pets are the best company we’ll ever need.
Although they sometimes vie for our attention at the most awkward moments, we just wouldn’t be without them.
They improve our social life
It’s true! Sometimes our dogs can have a better social life than we do.
Our darling dogs are great talking points and we’ll often meet the same owners while out on our daily walks. If you’re finding it hard to get out and meet new people, your dog can help.
They can reduce stress
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If you’ve ever felt like things are getting on top of you, spending a bit of time with your dog can help to alleviate feelings of stress.
A doggy cuddle, some stroking or playtime can really help us to forget our troubles.
There’s a reason why they make great therapy dogs.
Dogs can boost our moods
We’re not always in the best of moods 24/7 – life sometimes just gets in the way.
But if you’re feeling a little flat and could do with cheering up, time spent with your dog provides the perfect pick-me-up.
They can reduce allergies
Imagine being allergic to dogs, that would be a disaster.
But actually, growing up around dogs can actually reduce the likelihood of suffering with allergies. That sounds like the perfect excuse to get a dog when you have a young family (not that you needed an excuse).
Being around animals from a young age can boost your immune system.
Dogs can detect when something is wrong
You just can’t knock a dog’s instincts. They know when something isn’t quite right, and we don’t just mean scaring off intruders.
Dogs can often sense when something is physically wrong with their owner. Their super-sensitive noses can pick up the scent of illness.
In cases where someone suffers from epileptic fits, seizure dogs can assist in picking up on this before it even happens. They’re also especially helpful when working with children as they’re able to alert parents when episodes do happen.
They can provide independence
Our independence is something many of us take for granted, we don’t know how it feels to lose it. But some people do, and their dogs can help.
From those suffering with anxiety who struggle to go out into the world alone, to people who’ve lost their sight and can’t get around without assistance, a dog can restore a real sense of independence.
And that can only be good for mental wellbeing.
For more dog stories, visit the TeamDogs website
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