Dogs Help Us Live Longer, Happier Lives

Domesticated pets – dogs and cats, rabbits, budgies and even goldfish -- rely on us for their food, shelter, care, and emotional well-being. It's a relationship built on trust. They give us their unconditional love and we ensure they thrive. The benefits of pet parentage deepen over time, as these animals become our true friends, consolers, playmates, and best-loved members of our families.

Statistics show that people who have pets are less likely to suffer from depression, have lower blood pressure in stressful situations, and even have lower cholesterol levels than do people without pets.

Of all pets, canines are our oldest animal companions. Archaeological and genetic evidence points to dogs being domesticated significantly earlier than other animals, possibly as far back as 11,000 years ago at least. 

It’s easy to see how having a dog in the family and caring for her or him is the secret to living a healthy, happy life:

Exercise

They keep us moving! Dogs need at least 30 minutes of walking each day.

Companionship

Having a dog means having a constant companion who is always happy to see us no matter what.

Structure and Routine

Dogs need to walk and eat at certain times every day and they thrive on routine. Having this kind of structure in our lives keeps us calm and balanced. No matter how we’re feeling – depressed, anxious, or stressed – our pups are depending on us for exercise, food, and playtime.

Social Connections

Walking our dog around the neighborhood or over to the park is a great way to meet other people and their pups. We may not remember the people’s names, but we always remember the names of the other doggies we befriend this way!

But wait!...

Not only does petting a dog release endorphins, those “happy” chemicals in our brains that promote feelings of well-being and relaxation, but having a dog can help us live longer lives.

Studies suggest that owning a pet can be associated with a longer lifespan, potentially due to increased physical activity and reduced stress, with dog owners, especially, experiencing a 24 percent lower risk of all-cause mortality. 

 Photo: Blue Bird

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