LASHLEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL

6 Reasons To Get A Canine Companion When You Hit 50

Lashley Animal Hospital And Studies In "The Journal of Physical Activity And Health" Discuss The Benefits Of A Pet

If your nest is empty - by circumstance or by choice - think about getting a dog. Known for their devotion and happy dances, dogs can take a big bite out of isolation. Just hanging out with a furry friend has a revitalizing effect. Here are six benefits of later-life dog ownership.

Dogs Keep You Fit

Adopt a dog and ditch that pricey personal trainer. One particular study in the journal, published in 2009, found that dog owners walk approximately one hour longer per day than those without a fetching friend in their lives.

Dogs Make You Healthier

Another journal study published in 2016 also showed that dog-owning seniors have lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol than their pet-less peers. Having a dog also reduces the risk of heart attack - and boosts your chances of long-term survival if you have one.

Dogs Are Social Mediums

A natural-born icebreaker, your dog will introduce you to everyone from next-door neighbors to perfect strangers. It’s impossible to pass a dog without making a “pat stop,” so head for the park - Bowser will take it from there.

They Organize Your Day

In the same way a canine friend can help an introvert, a dog may keep one sane, showered and solvent. Because a dog owner knows he/she must feed and walk a dog at certain times, they are more organized during the day. Makes sense: Dogs, like humans, thrive on structure; they need to be fed, walked and nurtured at regular intervals.

Dogs Get You

MRI scanners showed that the canine brain reacts to voices and sounds, such as crying or laughter, in the same way the human brain does. Dogs are also the only non-human animals who scan the left side of a face - the process whereby people, too, “read” emotions.

They Boost Quality of Life

For many older Americans, a dog means the difference between a life lived and a life merely endured. Dogs help you stay safe and independent: They provide ears for the deaf, eyes for the blind and an early warning system at the approach of dangers (both real and imagined, of course!).

For more information, call Lashley Animal Hospital at (618) 234-4584; www.lashleyanimalhospital.com.

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