Pets are wonderful additions to any home, whether it’s solitary living, a couple or as part of a family. Dogs, in particular, become dependable, supportive and devoted family members who can remarkably improve your positive state of mind.
What to Consider Before Committing to a Dog
Although there are many benefits of gaining a faithful companion, you need to ensure that you can practically care for and provide for a dog. Despite the fact that you may desperately want your new best friend, what’s imperative is that you have the means to care for the dog as much as it will care for you.
Therefore, you should consider:
- Your financial situation, including everyday expenses and medical bills.
- Is your property suitable for a dog?
- Do you have the time to give it the attention it needs?
- Can you commit to the entirety of its life?
If your situation isn’t ideal in terms of time in the day or working schedule, there are options to work around this, such as compassionate daycare through a reliable provider like Heart and Paw. They can ensure that during the day while you are at work, your dog is well-taken care of and can make friends to play with.
Now, let’s discuss how beneficial dogs can be for your mental wellbeing.
They Offer Unconditional Love
Mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety, can often leave you feeling unworthy of affection, judged by others or unsure of yourself. During this difficult time, dogs offer you unconditional love and attention. They will not judge you based on your mood, they will not mind if you do not feel up to talking, and they will love you for who you are, exactly as you are. For a person in their lowest mood, this can be extremely uplifting and an essential need.
They Require You to Be More Active
Exercise is one of the main methods to help tackle depression and low moods. However, unfortunately, finding the motivation to exercise more when you are suffering from low moods can be difficult, and often impossible, especially if you live alone and feel as though you have no reason to venture outside.
Dogs encourage you to be more active and explore outdoors in the fresh air. The premise of a long walk is non-negotiable, and this regular fitness routine will positively impact your mental health.
They Provide Company
One main ingredient of depression is loneliness. For an individual both living alone and suffering with mental illness, a dog provides supportive company when it is very much needed. Dogs are the best form of company for a person struggling with their mind, as dogs don’t require long conversations or social demands – they are simply there, present and ready to provide affection.
They Help to Provide Relaxation and Decrease Stress
For those whose mental illness finds them very on edge, quick to anger and suffering with their anxiety, dogs are a calming and soothing element to the home. Even the simple act of stroking the soft fur of a dog can assist in helping you to feel more relax. The warm weight of a dog close to you can also provide comfort and a solid presence to assist in your feeling more comfortable.
In Conclusion
While dogs are hugely beneficial for anyone suffering with this category of illness, they are not the sole solution, and it’s important to seek professional help if you feel that you are significantly struggling and need to talk to someone. It’s important to know that you are not alone, and that help is available. A dog is just one of the many areas which can promote more positivity in your life.
