New Study Suggests That Having A Dog May Help You Live Longer

I don’t think that any of us need an extra reason to love dogs. They do so much for us by providing us with loyalty and love that it is difficult not to love them back. Thanks to a 2019 study, however, we have yet another reason to adore the furry friend beside us.

The American Heart Association Circulation Journal published a study. It took 70 years to complete putting the study together, because it involved companionship of dogs and longevity.

According to the research, there was a 24% drop seen in “risk of death” when you had a dog compared with not having a dog. There was also a “significant reduction” shown in the risk of death for those who had a dog in their household.

At this point, you may be wondering why there is such a benefit of having a dog in your life. The studies also looked into that possibility and they think it has to do with physical exercise. When you have a dog, you are more likely to go for nighttime walks and take on other forms of exercise. That also helps to reduce the possibility of heart disease.

The activities mentioned are outdoor-based, so there is also the benefit of getting some sunshine and fresh air. Perhaps one of the most underrated benefits is of petting a dog. It has been shown that it can lower blood pressure similar to the way that some medicines do so. The mental health benefits of owning a dog are numerous, including boosting your self-esteem, reducing depression, and helping cope with loneliness.

There were many benefits of owning a dog, but it is important not to use them as a substitute for living a healthy life. Dogs can help to spark motivation and self-improvement, so they may benefit you in that way as well.



from The Animal Rescue Site Blog https://ift.tt/30fvAAg

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