Any animal lover will tell y’all that pets are a part of the family. They’re fuzzy and lovable, not to mention adorable! But our pets are more than cute; they also help us relieve stress. Just look at dogs—many will tell y’all about four ways dogs help improve your mental health.
Structure
Life is full of the unexpected, but dogs help relieve some of this because they require a schedule. Your pet relies on you for walks, eating, and playtime. Everyone needs structure since structure means reliability; it’s especially helpful when you’re living a fast-paced, stressful life.
Alongside structure comes improved self-confidence. Why? Because another living creature counts on you and your routine for its survival. Many agree that pet ownership helps build an individual’s self-confidence.
Mindfulness
Of the many lessons dogs teach us, perhaps the most important are those in mindfulness. Dogs don’t worry about tomorrow, nor do they dread past mistakes. Instead, they focus on what’s here and now. They live life to the fullest and take time to smell the roses.
Companionship
Dogs also help improve our mental health by offering companionship, and they do this in two ways. Canines are man’s best friends because of their undying loyalty and devotion. They’re the best listeners because they never judge us when we talk about our mistakes or wrongdoings.
All our dogs do is listen and love us. But dogs also help us find human companions. So, whether you’re on a walk or at the pet store, you may bump into someone new. Y’all have your dog to thank for that.
Exercise
Getting your heart pumping isn’t just great for your physical health. When we get good exercise, we also increase those feel-good brain chemicals, also known as endorphins. And what running buddy is better than your furry friend? Not only that, but you may go on new adventures together as you hike through forest preserves or go on walks before sunrise.
Before You Adopt
Even though dogs are incredible and benefit our health in many ways, that doesn’t mean y’all should run out and adopt one. Before welcoming a furry addition to your family, do your research on breeds, then decide whether you have a lifestyle appropriate for a pet.
Also, make sure you can afford and are willing to put in the commitment. Remember that you need to stick to your pet’s routine, even when you’re tired. So, while there are many ways dogs help improve your mental health, you need to feel ready for a life-long commitment.
