Shutterstock
Dogs are said to be man’s best friend, and most people would agree with this statement. The heart-melting story of Hachiko and his deceased owner proves beyond doubt that dogs and humans can forge a remarkable, life-changing, and at times till-death-do-us-part connection.
Dogs are life-changers, and they can be your perfect companion — unyieldingly loyal, always caring, and perpetually loving. In case you’re not convinced, here are 6 ways a dog will change your life for the better:
Pixabay
1. A dog will add years to your life. Men’s Journal offers the most compelling reason to go get a dog such as having a canine companion will help you live longer. Dr. Alan Beck, director of the Center of the Human-Animal Bond at Purdue University, notes that quality time with dogs has a lot of positive health benefits, including lowering your blood pressure and heart rate. Gerontologist Dr. David J. Demko explains that, “the physical and mental health benefits of owning a dog can add two years to the life of an owner.”
2. A dog will make you happy. Dr. Beck also points out that there are “real physiological responses that humans exhibit in the presence of and interaction with dogs,” notably the suppression of cortisol (a stress hormone) and a corresponding surge of endorphins (hormones that suppress feelings of stress and pain), serotonin (a hormone that mitigates depression), prolactin (a hormone that induces feelings of nurture), and oxytocin (the so-called love hormone).
3. A dog will teach you to love and care. Dogs require love, care, and attention, and the more you give to your dog, the more you will realize that you can actually love and care unconditionally. Before you know it, you will be a much more loving and caring version of yourself.
4. You’ll make new friends. Livestrong claims that owning a dog will help you make new friends from a whole new social circle: the demographic of dog owners. You’ll be pleasantly surprised how many dog owners you will see when you take your canine companion for a walk. Most conversations will start off with a discussion about dogs.
5. You’ll be more compassionate. Dogs can be naughty. They can nibble your couch, sully your living room, and leave dog dander (which has health benefits, too, by the way, as it can activate the immune systems of young children) all around the house. Despite the inconvenience you will find it hard to stay annoyed at your dog. This increased patience and compassion will likely spill over into other areas of your life.
6. You’ll move more. Having a dog will get you moving a lot more. Exercise is an important part of owning a dog, and before long, you’ll be more active and spending more time moving about outdoors. Not only will your dog stay healthy and happy but so will you.
A Point to Keep in Mind
Dogs are a huge commitment. Before adopting, consider whether you have the time and resources to give your pet the care it deserves. Dog ownership can be particularly costly during your first year; aside from the initial adoption fee, you’ll need to consider food, veterinary expenses, dog supplies, and possibly even insurance. Sound Dollar’s article on how much dogs cost notes that veterinary costs in the first year can cost you as much as $1,875. This is because you need to stay on top of necessary preventive measures, such as vaccines and protective treatments against ticks, fleas, and heartworm.
Dog care will also require a lot of your time. According to our article entitled ‘Some Great Ideas to Help Out Your Dogs’ Health’, dogs need to be exercised every day to stay healthy. Some breeds will have higher energy levels and need more exercise than others. Be sure to select a breed whose energy levels you can keep up with.
Dogs make fantastic companions. They make us happier, more active, sociable, and compassionate. Give your dog proper care and you’ll earn its unconditional love and loyalty.
Pixabay
