The animal-human bond is an incredible thing. Those of us who have been touched by an animal know this without a doubt, but now this amazing interspecies relationship is being studied by scientists. Professionals and institutions have created a field of professional work that involves everything from service dogs to horse therapists. Pets and therapy animals are provoking some remarkable changes with our physical, mental, and emotional health, and there are stats and studies that show it’s more than just rumors and opinions..
Physical Health
It’s hard to stay seated with a curious four-legged friend around, so it’s no surprise that dog owners are more likely to exercise. The health benefits go far beyond dog walking though. Studies are showing that there’s a connection between dogs and blood pressure, exercise, obesity, and stress response. It’s entirely possible that active people are more likely to get dogs, but anyone with a dog knows the power of those wagging tails. They’re always ready for an adventure, however simple, and we want to be there with them.
Mental Health
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder has been on the rise since 9/11, with many soldiers struggling with their return to modern American life. Everyday life can cause sudden flashbacks and immediate panic attacks provoked by noises, social situations, and blind corners, and this makes veterans and soldiers prone to isolation, depression, and unbearable stress. Dogs are making all the difference though. Specially trained shelter dogs like those from K9s For Warriors are able to help soldiers in innumerable ways. Canines are able to wake up soldiers from nightmares, interrupt oncoming anxiety attacks, and can even be trained to bark on cue to give owners an excuse to leave uncomfortable situations. On top of that, they’re getting them outside and giving them a renewed sense of purpose.
Another major disorder benefiting from pets is dementia. This disease has such a tremendous impact on those who suffer from it, but this once-seemingly hopeless condition is being given hope by pets. Dogs and cats are showing they can add quality of life by benefitting mood, sociability, and even appetite. There’s also great value in their non-verbal communication. It can be so hard for friends and family to understand the person the love when dementia comes into the picture. While loved ones may be lost for words and uncertain of what to say or feel, animals offer a simple and comforting presence that’s free of confusion or fear. It’s all about enjoying the moment, and happiness will always be the perfect medicine for each and every disease.
Emotional Health
Science can print out stats that show how pet owners are more social, less stressed, and have higher self-esteem, but we already know all that. Animals offer us a companionship that’s unlike anything else. They’re free of judgement and they always seem to know when we’re down and in need of a furry distraction. They’re there for us when we’re all alone, and they give us love and support that’s unconditional and free of any strings. And their ability to live in the present means they’re never too busy for us and they’re always looking to seize the moment. Our pets are the perfect examples of what we ourselves want to be. Yes, they have their grumpy moments and they can be poop machines, but that just makes them real. Just like us.
Photo by Nisa Yeh
-Ash Stevens
• Everyday Health (4/20/2010). How Animal Therapy Helps Dementia Patients. Retrieved from http://www.everydayhealth.com/alzheimers/how-animal-therapy-helps-dementia-patients.aspx
• Eureka Alert (5/9/2013). Pets May Help Reduce Your Risk Of Heart Disease. Retrieved from http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-05/aha-pmh050713.php
• ElectroBraid (3/5/2015). Equine-Assisted Therapy: Physical And Emotional Benefits. Retrieved from http://www.electrobraid.com/horse-farm-management/equine-assisted-therapy/
• Havahart Wireless (7/22/2014). Why Pets Make Us Happy. Retrieved from http://www.havahartwireless.com/blog/why-pets-make-us-happy.php
• K9s For Warriors . Retrieved from http://www.k9sforwarriors.org/
