And it’s not just that dogs are always happy to see us and make us laugh – they can also help improve our emotional well-being in other ways, too. Here are four scientific reasons why owning a dog is great for your mental health:
Owning a Dog Can Help Reduce Stress Levels
One study found that when people were asked to complete a stressful task (like giving a public speech), those who owned dogs had lower levels of cortisol (the hormone responsible for stress) than those who didn’t own dogs. In another study, researchers found that the owners of shelter dogs experienced significantly lower levels of loneliness and depression than non-dog owners.
This could be because having someone else rely on you helps reduce feelings of stress or isolation. Dogs provide companionship, support, and unconditional love – all things which can help keep our moods stable even during difficult times!
In the case of the incarcerated veteran, Pax was instrumental in helping him to get his life back on track. The vet had been struggling with addiction and PTSD-related issues for years before he met Pax. Once they began working together, the dog provided a nonjudgmental listening ear and helped keep the veteran accountable for his actions. With regular training sessions that incorporated obedience commands as well as therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Pax gave this young vet hope when things were looking bleak.
After adopting an aggressive pitbull mix named Knox, Catherine became inspired to start advocating against Breed Specific Legislation (BSL).
Knox proved himself to be a great ambassador not just for pits but all dogs by teaching Catherine about compassion and understanding – something she never thought possible given her previous negative experiences with other animals resembling Knox.
PAX the Miracle Dog was recently reunited with one of his former patients, five-year-old cancer survivor Kaleb. The touching moment between them is evident of the powerful connection that exists between these two.
