Owning an animal is a great way to bring joy into your life. There are numerous physical and emotional benefits to owning a pet. Dogs in particular offer advantages ranging from emotional support to the reduction of illness. Here are some of the top benefits to having a dog.
Exercise
Pet ownership is a good reason to get up and exercise. Most dogs have lots of energy and enjoy long walks. Your pup needs exercise just as much as you do. There are so many fun activities you can do together such as hiking and swimming. When you have an animal, it’s much easier and more fun to get that workout in. If you need ideas for ways you can exercise with your pet, aaptiv.com posted an article on the best ways to do so. You can find that article here.
Stress Reliever
Animals have been shown to reduce feelings of stress, depression and anxiety. Playing with and petting a dog has been proven to help increase production of the stress reducing hormone oxytocin and decrease production of cortisol which is a stress hormone. Long story short, if you’re feeling stressed, go play with a pup!
Responsibility
Owning a dog, or any animal, is a great way to learn responsibility. You have a duty to make sure they are well taken care of. Regular feedings, grooming, immunizations, and making sure they are spayed/neutered not only teaches personal responsibility, it can also help teach financial responsibility. You have to make sure you are spending your money wisely so you are financially ready to take care of your dog as well. Additionally, pet ownership is a great way to learn to be a little more selfless. When you have a dog to take care of, there will be times you have to put their needs ahead of your own.
Socialization
Owning a dog is great way to meet people. Taking any animal out in public is a sure way to draw attention to yourself. Chances are, if you go on a walk or out to the park, people will stop you to ask if they can pet your dog. Talking with people as they give your pup some attention is a great way to get to know fellow dog lovers. Frequent park visits will ensure the socialization of both you and your animal.
Reduces Illness
According to animalsfriends.co.uk, “Pets spend a lot of their time outside and therefore bring all sorts of dirt and germs into your home. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though – the additional germs can help improve your immunity to colds and other mild illnesses.” Dogs can be an incredibly asset to physical health. Let your pup help boost your immune system.
Although there are many notable benefits to dog ownership, there are many more that aren’t mentioned here. The love, loyalty and life animals bring into a home are just a few qualities that make having a pet an incredibly enjoyable experience.