Having a Dog Can Influence Your Health in Many Ways

Australia has a deep affection for dogs, with one of the highest rates of pet ownership globally, and half of all households owning at least one dog.

But do they benefit our health?

After companionship, mental health is the second-most cited reason for getting a dog. Many dog owners report “feeling healthier” because of their pet and even allow them to sleep in their bedroom.

Here’s how sharing our homes (and blankets) with our dogs impacts both our physical and mental health.

Long-Term Health Benefits of Dog Ownership

Owning a dog is associated with a lower long-term risk of death. A 2019 systematic review examined research spanning 70 years and nearly four million medical cases, revealing that dog owners had a 24% lower risk of dying from any cause compared to non-owners.

Dog ownership was also linked to increased physical activity, which helped lower blood pressure and reduced the risk of stroke and heart disease.

For individuals with a history of heart-related issues, living with a dog reduced their risk of dying by 35% compared to those without a dog and similar medical histories.

Increased Physical Activity Among Dog Owners

Additionally, a recent UK study found that adult dog owners were almost four times more likely to meet daily physical activity goals than non-owners. Children in dog-owning households were also more active and engaged in more unstructured play than those in households without dogs.

Being exposed to dirt and microbes brought indoors by dogs might help strengthen children’s immune systems, potentially reducing the need for antibiotics as they grow up with dogs.

However, owning a dog can also present physical health risks. One of the most common issues for pet owners is allergies.

Dog saliva, urine, and dander (shed skin cells) can trigger allergic reactions, causing symptoms like itchy eyes, runny nose, and difficulty breathing.

A recent meta-analysis of nearly two million children found that early exposure to dogs may increase the risk of developing asthma, though not as much as exposure to cats. Factors such as the child’s age, amount of contact with the dog, and individual risk all influence this.

Slips, trips, and falls are another concern, with dogs causing more falls than cats.

Health Risks Associated with Dog Ownership

Dog bites and scratches can lead to infections, posing a particular risk for those with weakened immune systems. Dogs can also bring zoonotic diseases into the home, such as ringworm and Campylobacter, which causes diarrhea.

Sharing a bed with a dog may increase the likelihood of allergies and ringworm, and could disrupt sleep due to the dog’s movements at night. However, some owners feel safer sleeping with their dogs, and the emotional benefits may outweigh the risks of sleep disturbance or flea bites.

Ensuring proper veterinary care and maintaining good hygiene practices can help reduce these risks.

Many people recognize that the benefits of having a dog extend beyond physical health.

Emotional Benefits of Dog Companionship

As companions, dogs provide significant emotional support, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. Their presence can offer comfort and a sense of purpose to those facing mental health challenges.

Loneliness is a growing public health concern in Australia.

In dog parks and neighborhoods, dogs can facilitate conversations with strangers and help form new friendships. These social interactions can foster a sense of community and lessen feelings of social isolation.

For older adults, walking a dog can be an effective way to combat loneliness while promoting social engagement with neighbors and addressing declining physical activity.

However, those experiencing chronic loneliness may find it difficult to connect with others during walks. An Australian study indicated that simply acquiring a dog was associated with reduced feelings of loneliness, as people reported improved moods—likely due to the strengthened bond with their pet.

Challenges and Responsibilities of Dog Ownership

While dogs can bring great joy and numerous health benefits, they also come with downsides and challenges. The responsibility of caring for a dog, particularly one with behavioral or health issues, can be overwhelming and lead to financial strain.

Dogs have shorter lifespans than humans, and losing a cherished companion can result in depression or worsen existing mental health conditions.

Lifestyle compatibility and housing circumstances are also crucial factors in determining whether dog ownership is a good match.

The “pet effect” suggests that pets, especially dogs, enhance human physical and mental health in all situations and for everyone. However, the reality is more complex; for some individuals, owning a pet may create more stress than benefits.

It is essential to recognize that the animals in our homes are not merely “tools” for improving human health. Both owners and dogs can benefit mutually when the welfare and well-being of each are prioritized.

Read the original article on: Science Alert

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