Can Owning A Dog Improve Mental Health?
Humans love dogs. Fact. Since the first known domestication of dogs more than 12,000 years ago we have become obsessed. Today social media feeds are bursting with cute photos, funny videos, and even dogs who have their own dedicated Instagram feeds which have millions of followers. Some dogs are more internet famous than some human celebrities!
Sure, dogs are cute, but owning one can bring some valuable benefits. Studies have shown that owning a dog can improve someone’s mental state, they make a positive difference to someone suffering anxiety or depression and calm a stressed out child. Dogs don’t talk, and they certainly don’t have a degree in psychology, so how can a humble doggo make things better for someone struggling with mental health issues?
“Pawsitive Steps is about embracing a holistic approach to address mental illness with a focus on removing stigma and changing attitudes within Australian communities.”
Ryan Tracey – Pawsitive Steps Committee Member
Dogs may not be able to counsel you through tough periods quite like a human would, but they have their own powers which reach into us humble humans and help us to get back on track.
How Dogs Can Improve Mental Health
Routine
Your four legged friend still needs to be fed, watered and walked, no matter how you are feeling. When the last thing you want to do is get out of bed or leave your home, that’s when your canine companion will need you to step up and take care of them, even if it takes just a few minutes. This break can often be just enough to turn a day around. A regular routine and structure is known to be beneficial to those who have mental illness and those with autism and Asperger’s syndrome.
Non-Verbal Communication
Humans at our very core crave touch as a primary human need. Having your dog nuzzle into you when you feel highly anxious or stressed can bring immediate feelings of calm. For a young person suffering from depression, a dog can also become a trusted ally. A friend who understands, without judging or wanting to talk all the time. Dogs are also intuitive, and once a bond between dog and owner is established, it becomes special and unbreakable.
Fitness
If you are a dog owner, you have to exercise! Even the tiniest of dogs need to get out in the open air for a walk or to run in the park and let off some steam. Keeping fit and exercise has long been known to have a positive impact on those who have mental illness and becoming a dog owner means getting out in the fresh air and meeting fellow dog owners on a daily basis.
Reduce The Feeling Of Isolation
Teenagers and older people can both suffer from feelings of isolation and loneliness. Owning a dog brings great companionship and four legged friends have been life-long friends of humans for thousands of years for good reason.
Statistics show that suicide is the biggest killer of young Australians. It’s a sad, tragic epidemic which needs to be talked about and not hidden in the shadows of taboo and shame. That’s why local community events as Pawsitive Steps are so important. Pawsitive Steps is hosting its annual event on 27th August 2017 hosting two community walks (with, or without a dog!), along plenty of stalls, activities and free doggy treats. The entire event is about promoting mental health awareness, and the benefits which owning a dog can bring. Local councils who are getting behind such initiatives are paving the way, bringing mental health to the fore and gaining wider recognition and support to reducing this extraordinary and gut-wrenching suicide numbers.
Sam Fairweather, owner of Australian Owned HPA Group, is a local businessman supporting Pawsitive Steps by supplying free dog poop bags for the event. Sam says:-
“Any event which aims to recognise and reduce mental illness in our communities needs full support from every member of our community. Dogs as therapy is something myself and HPA Group genuinely get behind, and we are committed to helping other community-based dog events throughout 2017.”
However, before picking up the phone and calling your local dog shelter, there are a few things to consider first.
Do you fully understand what is needed to provide a happy, healthy forever home to a dog?
Have you worked out how much it will cost? Can you afford a dog?
What kind of dog do you need? A terrier will bring bundles of energy, character and playfulness which might be ideal for a younger person. A retriever, or collie will need to be stimulated and challenged; all working dogs like to have a purpose and a ‘job’ to do. A slightly older dog might be ideal for a senior who can only go on short walks and is looking for a companion dog. Your local animal shelter can advise you on the type of dog and temperament which will be the right fit for you.
Once you take your new companion in and give them a forever home, the rewards you will gain are sure to outweigh any material cost. Owning a dog really can improve your mental health and the health of your loved ones. If you are worried about depression, suicide, or want to talk to someone reach out to Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636
Pawsitive Steps
Sunday 27th August
From 9am
Bella Vista Oval, Bella Vista NSW
Need free samples for your community dog event?
Contact Jo-Ann Duff at Pr@hpa.com.au
