Man's Best Friend for Better Health
By Donna Stark
Are your children begging for a pet in the home and are you looking for additional ways to improve their health and fitness? Well, adopting a dog could be your solution! Your children will receive so many benefits from this new adventure that you shouldn't turn a blind eye to their request. Sure, owning a dog does require commitment, dedication, and a lot of work, but the results that come from doing so are immeasurable.
Physical and Mental Health Benefits
Many people will say they are in better health since becoming owners of their four-legged family member. Here are some of the physical and mental health benefits that one can look forward to with a new puppy in the house.
- Improves heart health - Pets have a calming effect on people and encourage their owners to exercise more. This can help reduce stress and lower blood pressure which are vital to good heart health.
- Supports healthier weight - Daily walks and fun-filled playtimes at the park encourage dog owners to engage in physical activity and help them to maintain a healthier weight. Include your dog on family hikes, make sure you are stocked with plenty of Frisbees and tennis balls, and check where the local dog parks are.
- Reduces risk of allergies - Have you ever had friends or acquaintances who were allergic to animals? It certainly didn't look like they had much fun dealing with their symptoms, did it? You can help reduce the risk of your children suffering from the same thing by owning a pet!
- Reduces depression and loneliness - There is one thing that happens with certainty when you own a dog. You won't be alone, and that's because your dog is sure to be next to you and may even follow you from room to room all the time!
- Encourages time in nature - When you take your dog outdoors, you mix physical activity with Mother Nature, and that is a winning combination! This dynamic duo can improve your family's mental health by reducing stress, boosting moods, increasing social interaction, soothing pain, and promoting creativity.
- Promotes responsibility - You can't have a pet without having some additional responsibilities in life, so if you are looking for something to teach your children important life skills, a dog is the way to go. From feeding to walking to brushing to training, your children will become more responsible by the day!
Man's Best Friend
There's a reason why dogs are called man's best friend. The physical and mental health benefits of bringing a dog into your home are too numerous to count, but that's not all! Your new puppy will also bring additional love, joy, and laughter, and there is nothing better than that!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Littleton, Colo.