ADOPTING A PET CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE

ADOPTING A PET CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE

Adopting a Pet Can Save Your Life

Dogs enrich our lives in countless ways, from their unconditional love and companionship to the joy and purpose they bring to our daily routines. Beyond the emotional bonds we form with our furry friends, owning a dog also has notable physical health benefits.

Promotes Physical Activity

Caring for a dog involves regular exercise, such as walks, playtime, or even structured routines. The amount of exercise depends on your dog’s breed and energy levels, but most dog owners walk their pets multiple times a week.

Research has shown that walking a dog contributes significantly to an active lifestyle, reducing the risk of obesity, heart disease, and even certain cancers. For example, studies indicate that the majority of dog owners engage in at least 10 minutes of walking daily, boosting both their own fitness and their pet's well-being.

Supports Heart Health

Regular physical activity, such as walking with your dog, is excellent for your cardiovascular system. Exercise helps lower blood pressure, reduce LDL cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol), and increase HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol), which improves blood flow and reduces strain on the heart.

Walking your dog not only benefits your heart but also allows you to enjoy fresh air and the outdoors, making it a win-win for both owner and pet.

Helps Manage Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight involves balancing calorie intake with physical activity. The World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly for adults. Regular walks with your dog can make it easier to meet this goal and stay on track with weight management.

Encourages Sunlight Exposure

Time spent outdoors with your dog can increase your exposure to sunlight, helping your body produce vitamin D. This nutrient is essential for bone health and plays a role in preventing certain diseases. Regular walks ensure you're soaking up enough sun, even during cooler months, which can be especially helpful in areas with limited daylight.

May Improve Heart Attack Recovery

Owning a dog has been linked to better outcomes for heart attack survivors. Studies suggest that dog owners may have a higher chance of surviving the first year post-heart attack compared to non-owners. While the exact reasons are unclear, the companionship and physical activity associated with dog ownership likely play a role.

Strengthens the Immune System

Living with a dog can expose you to a wider variety of beneficial microbes. Families with dogs often share a similar microbiome with their pets, which can positively influence health. Research suggests that exposure to dog-associated bacteria in household dust may reduce the risk of developing asthma and other respiratory conditions.

Assistance and Therapy Dogs

Dogs provide invaluable support as service animals. They help individuals with visual impairments navigate the world, alert caregivers during seizures, and even assist in rescue missions. Their intelligence and trainability make them indispensable partners in various life-saving and therapeutic roles.

Fewer Doctor Visits

Dog owners tend to visit doctors less frequently and require fewer medications compared to those without pets. While the exact reasons remain unclear, the combination of physical activity, companionship, and stress relief provided by dogs likely contributes to better overall

What are you waiting for?

Your future dog is out there practicing their best puppy eyes just for you! Swing by your local shelter or give their social media a stalk—you might just meet your new best friend. 

If you're considering adopting a pet, reaching out to local shelters or provincial organizations is a great way to start.

Canadian Shelters (if you would like your shelter or rescue to be included in the list) sent us an email. 

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