AS WE APPROACH MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK – 12th – 18th May 2025 . . . . CAN A DOG BE GOOD FOR MENTAL HEALTH?
With Mental Health awareness week ( May 12th -18th) around the corner and summer fast approaching, there has never been a better time to try and get out with your four legged walking buddy. Even a short burst of 10 minutes of brisk walking increases our mental alertness, energy and positive mood.
Coupled with increasing our self esteem and reducing stress and anxiety. And re search suggest that walking in the sun is proven to elevate our mood even further.
Walking your dog can lower cortisol levels…. The stress hormone and boost GABA … that calms the brain.
Dog walking often involves interacting with other dog owners, which can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. As well as providing a sense of purpose and routine which in return can be beneficial for our mental well being.
And of course we must not forget the benefits for our four legged walking buddies. Walking them regularly will burn off excess energy, reduce stress and help them relax, plus strengthening stronger bonds between you and your dog.
It’s a winning combination….. let’s get out there !!!!!
Please spare a moment and read through some of the enlightening articles researched below.
THE KENNEL CLUB
Mental health – benefits of owning a dog
This article is particularly related to mental health awareness week
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PDSA
Five reasons pets are great for our mental health
They offer companionship
They’re a reason to get up in the morning
They can reduce stress
They help us develop good habits
They need us, too.
Read the full article
THE GUARDIAN
Dogs have a magic effect’: how pets can improve our mental health.
Although written during Covid it has some insightful values of the relationship between people and dogs.
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BBC COUNTRYFILE
Half of dog owners say their mental health has soared thanks to their canine companions
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AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION
5 Ways Pets Help With Stress and Mental Health
Read the full article