Did you know that pets can be good for your health? Researchers have known about a link between pets and health benefits for about 25 years now. I had heard this before, but spending some time with my friend’s dog made me realize how true it is!
Friends of mine went on vacation and asked me to watch their little dog, Molly. At first I was a little hesitant, but decided to help out a friend. So Molly (all 15 pounds of her) moved in with me for the week. This is what I realized after the week had flown by:
My activity increased. I took Molly for brisk walks most days, and we both loved it! She loved getting out into the fresh air and I loved that I was able to add an extra 30-45 minutes to my exercise routine. It didn’t even feel like exercise! It’s recommended that adults get 150 minutes of moderate level intensity of physical activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous level intensity of physical activity per week.
I met new people. Molly and I went to the dog park one day and I was exposed to a whole new world that I hadn’t known about! It wasn’t long after I got there that someone came up to me and asked what kind of dog Molly was, how long had I had her, if she can do any tricks, etc. For someone who doesn’t get a lot of social interaction, owning a pet can be a great conversation starter! It may even lead to a date!
I felt less stressed. Being a small dog, Molly was able to lay on the couch with me and curl up right in my arms. It was adorable! Pets have been shown to lower blood pressure, and playing with a dog can raise levels of serotonin and dopamine - nerve transmitters that are known to have pleasurable and calming properties which can ward off depression, too.
All in all I had a really good time with Molly. I can see how people get attached to their pets! If you have a pet, please share what kind it is and what tricks they can do! Molly can roll over, play dead, shake, give a high five and dance.
"There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face."
-Ben Williams
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