According to a study of 3.4 million people, owning a dog is linked to a longer life. Researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden followed the health records of 3.4 million people who had no history of cardiovascular disease back in 2001. Then they kept track of their health for the next 12 years and whether or not they owned and cared for a dog. FYI: In Sweden, dog ownership registries are mandatory and every visit to a hospital is recorded in a national database. Interestingly, researchers found that of the people surveyed dog owners had a lower risk of death due to cardiovascular disease as well as a lower risk of death from other causes.
Staying More Active
Perhaps owning and taking care of a dog leads people to live a more active lifestyle– taking their dog for walks, for instance. It has been said that when it’s raining out, the only people out walking will be the dog walkers– now that’s dedication. Furthermore, dogs are “always there” for emotional and social support. When friends and family don’t have time for a person, especially one who lives alone, their pet dog can be their beloved canine companion. Therefore, dogs help put people at ease, taking away their stress and anxiety, and, essentially, cheering them up!
Potential Immune System Booster
It has also been suggested that having a dog in the house helps decrease allergies and asthma for kids growing up there. In a way, the presence of a dog boosts people’s immune systems.
The aforementioned study also found that dog owners who owned dogs originally bred for hunting, like terriers and retrievers, were the most protected from heart disease and death.
Ultimately, owning a dog brings joy to people. Dogs are “feel good” pets who give people both purpose and love. Being responsible for another living thing is a tall order, but when Max or Fido looks at you with those eyes and then licks your face, how can you not love him, right?
If you’re going on vacation and need a place for your dog to stay, look no further. Tailwaggers Country Inn in Van Alstyne, Texas, is your pet’s vacation destination. Serving Dallas, Collin and Grayson Counties, and beyond, Tailwaggers can be reached by calling 877-774-DOGS.
