The Medical Benefits Of Dogs
Service dogs are specially trained canines that can provide a wealth of support and assistance for people with disabilities. There are dogs that are trained to detect seizures and alter their owners to sit or lie down as well as dogs that can act as a person’s eyes, ears and even as their hands, fetching items and performing tasks for the owner. medical benefits of dogs
However, dogs have other medical benefits as well, and this applies to all dogs, not only those highly trained service animals. The benefit of dog and human interaction is not just a likely connection, it has been demonstrated in medical tests and research trials. The ways that any dog can help any person medically are really astounding and well worth considering as another set of reasons to be thankful for your pooch.
Cardiovascular Health
People that own dogs and spend time routinely with their pets have better overall cardiovascular health. This includes lower blood pressure, which is often a cause of heart attack and stroke. medical benefits of dogs
Dogs in the family are also linked to lower triglyceride levels and lower bad cholesterol levels, which is related to the regular exercise that comes with owning a dog. Even those short little 15-30 minute walks a couple of times a day has a benefit to the human body.
This is not to say that owning a dog prevents heart attacks, but does assist in reducing the factors that are linked to the risk of a heart attack or stroke. However, when a dog owner does have a heart attack, he or she is in a group of people with higher than average long-term survival rate after the event.
As with cardiovascular health, those regular daily walks and playtimes with your dog are more likely to result in effective weight loss. If you are serious about getting fit, let your dog set the pace and pick it up a bit, gradually increasing your intensity and duration of the walk, jog or run.
The great thing about your dog is they are always enthusiastic about going. If you get into a routine, most dogs will also give you a friendly reminder when walk time is just around the corner, helping to keep you motivated and accountable.
Depression
Dogs can be very effective at reducing the risk of developing depression as well as the long-term treatment after a diagnosis. Going for walks has people out and about in the community, increasing their contact with others and assisting in building social networks.
Additionally, exercise is also a proven treatment for depression, stimulating the production of the “feel-good” chemicals in the brain. Dogs are also accepting and nonjudgmental companions and providing unconditional love and a welcoming friend even on the worst days.
Helping Children
Children with learning disabilities, Autism, as well as cognitive or developmental delays, will also benefit from a friendly dog to be their companion and comfort. Children talk to their dog and feel great about their four-legged friend, building confidence and allowing kids to practice social interactions in the most positive relationship possible. medical benefits of dogs
Having dogs is really a gift. The more you spend time with your dogs the greater the benefits you will find in physical and mental health for yourself and your family.