If you’re a dog owner yourself, you’ve probably picked up on this once or twice over the years, but amazingly enough, there now seems to be some proof in the matter: owning a dog really can be beneficial to your health!
There is now scientific research that has proven that
dogs do hold healing powers and can improve their owner’s physical and mental
health. There are very practical ways in which dogs help us to be healthier;
they are great and reliable companions, they need to be walked (which keeps us
active) and they can give us a sense of peace and security in the home.
University of Florida researchers found that dogs can
have the capability for detecting many diseases and illnesses before their
owners notice any symptoms. Such illnesses as seizures and migraines have been
detected by dogs just by noticing small details, like the quivering lips of
their owners.
Not only can dogs sense the beginning of physical
illness, but they can also detect mental conditions as well. Service dogs have
been given to soldiers returning from war in the Middle East, and were able to provide
emotional support to the soldiers during panic attacks. The Department of
Defense has recently used this as a form of treatment for soldiers suffering
from trauma.
Most certainly, owning a dog is a lot of fun, brings joy
to the dogs and their companions, and creates a family atmosphere inside the
home. For more interesting facts on the healing capabilities of your furry
friend, check out the infographic below! Let us know which factors may have
surprised you!
