If you’re one of the lucky individuals who have dogs with them during quarantine, then there’s a higher chance for you to survive this pandemic with your mental and physical health intact. Dogs more than ever are now being cited as a primary support system for all in the midst of the pandemic.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dogs can aid individuals in battling depression and loneliness through their constant companionship. As released by the CDC, 38% of the American household is with dogs. Hence, 38% of the population is experiencing the following positive effects cited by the CDC:
1. Promotes social, emotional, and cognitive development in children – having dogs around can help children to grow and become well-rounded and healthy young adults.
2. Promotes an active lifestyle – dog owners always get an extra boost in physical activity.
3. Provides companionship – companionship and feeling less alone is beneficial to one’s mental health.
4. Relieves stress and anxiety – the bond between dog and owner releases numerous calming hormones.
5. Decreases blood pressure – a dog’s calming presence soothes the body.
6. Decreases cholesterol levels – having a dog boosts the health of our hearts.
7. Decreases feelings of loneliness – dogs with their pure and unconditional love prevents one from feeling isolated and alone.
For instant stress release, experts advise gentle dog petting. Research showed that petting a dog in a soft and slow manner release relaxing and soothing hormones in both humans and dogs. Creating a bonding routine every morning or right before sleeping is highly advisable as it’s always good to start and end your day feeling positive and free of stress.
But the CDC continuously reminds the public to never forget to always protect oneself from getting sick by thoroughly washing hands after handling, caring for, feeding, or cleaning up after dogs. Never forget that we’re all in this together! Luckily our chances to overcome are ever high and apparent as we all have our dogs to help us get by!