“There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.”-Ben Williams
Did this quote by Ben Williams leave you smiling like a kid in a candy store? Well, dogs can have that effect on you. Hanging out with your pooch is never a waste of time. That’s not just opinion, it’s a scientific fact. According to a study conducted by Dr Anne Gadimski, a paediatrician and researcher at Bassett Medical Centre, New York; therapy using dogs proved to improve children’s mental health dramatically.
The study involved 643 children aged between 4 and 10 over a period of six months. 57,5% of the participants had dogs and 42,5% didn’t have any pets. The study proved that the children with pets, had lower levels of anxiety and better overall mental health.
Benefits of having a private DOG-tor
Hmm, bet you thought only a human doctor could prescribe you “happy pills”, right? Well although your barking buddy is not a qualified doctor, he can make you feel better. Here’s how:
- Chilled vibes
Pets have a calming effect on humans and owning a pet drives up levels of oxytocin (a neuropeptide that influences social behaviour and emotion) and reduces levels of cortisol (a hormone which controls metabolism), which ultimately reduces childhood mental illness and even obesity.
- Bye-bye high blood pressure
Does your dog have a super soft shiny fur coat? Well, petting and even just looking at that gorgeous coat lowers your blood pressure. Your blood pressure levels get lower, because you feel more relaxed when you spend time with your four-legged friend.
- Active lifestyle
When Max barks and bugs you to go for a walk or a jog, you have no choice in the matter. He will motivate you to release yourself from the grip of your comfy couch into the open arms of the outdoors.
When you are not on an adventure outside, your pup will likely force you to clean up messes on the floor or to pick up his favourite squeaky toy from the kitchen floor. One way or another, you will become active if you are the owner of an energetic pet. Remember though, if you have an active breed, it is your responsibility to make sure that they get enough stimulation, otherwise their mental health could suffer.
- Lonely days are over
You will have a companion with you, every dog friendly place you go. Your furry friend will also make you more approachable for other humans venturing the streets and parks. You might make some new human pals, thanks to your barking bestie.
Your buddy does all of this just for you. Imagine what you could do for him today, by just giving him your love, loyalty and the best possible protection. Care for them and cover them with dotsure.co.za Pet Insurance.
Get a Pet Insurance quote today!
Remember: “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.”
—Josh Billings
Oh, and here’s a video for you to enjoy…just what the DOG-tor ordered.
dotsure.co.za-Creating fans not policyholders.
