Science Says Dogs Are Good For Us, And Who Are We To Disagree?

dogmedicine

A study by Medical News Today revealed that children with dogs not only had reduced stress, but also a lower body mass index. Most dog owners already know that increased physical activity and a feeling inside their body and brain known as “love” comes with the territory of owning a dog, but the mental health benefits go far beyond the joy you get when you cuddle with your furry friend.

According to the study, children are able to parlay the ownership of a dog into a conversation icebreaker which helps them deal with early-age social anxiety and puts them at ease. Children 7-8 years old even rank dogs higher than humans as sources of self-esteem and comfort, considering their pet a confidant. The numbers don’t lie:

…among the 58% of children with a dog in the home, 12% tested positive on a screening test for anxiety, compared with 21% of children who did not have a pet dog.

It’s no wonder why dogs are our best friends. The stress reduction alone is worth the price of admission. Even when you’re like me, and your dog is barking at you incessantly as you write an article about dogs.

And speaking of that warm feeling inside when you’re with your pet—the researchers at Medical News Today summed it up in scientific terms:

“Interacting with a friendly dog also reduces cortisol levels, most likely through oxytocin release, which lessens physiologic responses to stress. These hormonal effects may underlie the observed emotional and behavioral benefits of animal-assisted therapy and pet dogs.”

So there you have it – a scientific reason to go out and get a dog today. Or at least pet someone else’s dog.

(Via Medical News Today)

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