8 Health Benefits of Having a Dog During the COVID19 Crisis

We love our dogs in the United States with almost 90 million nationwide. That means nearly one-half of households have a dog in their home.  Other than companionship, there are other advantages to having a dog in this Covid-19 new world.  For example:

  1. Safety & Security:  Dogs are another layer of security as barking dogs can keep burglars at bay.  Dogs can spot intruders well before we can.
  2. More Exercise: When owning a dog, you should be walking it 2-3 times/day.  Guess what?  You are exercising when walking your dog, and 30-45 minutes/day can do wonders for your health.
  3. Less Chance of Depression: Dog’s companionship has been known to help people diagnosed with clinical depression.  Caring for an animal can help relieve the symptoms of depression and make people feel more positive.
  4. Less Stress: Numerous studies have shown that dog owners have lower stress levels.  Engaging with your dog can reduce stress.
  5. Illness detection:  Dogs see the world through their keen sense of smell.  Some dogs can sense the onset of epileptic seizures or the presence of some types of cancer. 
  6. Increased Allergy Tolerance:  Children raised in homes with pets like a dog have a reduced chance of having allergies.  Growing up with a dog can boost immunity to pet allergies later in life.
  7. Boosted Brain Development:  Dogs boost brain development in children, along with emotional growth and connection to others.
  8. Stronger Heart: Studies have shown that petting a dog can lower your heart rate and male pet owners tend to have reduced rates of heart disease.  No wonder why dog adoptions are way up!  Enjoy!