Health and happiness thanks to a dog – 5 ways to improve your physical and mental condition

Health and happiness thanks to a dog – 5 ways to improve your physical and mental condition.

Having a pet is not only a pleasure, but also a way to improve the quality of life. Research shows that living together with a pet, especially a dog, can bring a number of health benefits to both humans and animals.

Here are five key ways you can improve your health and well-being by enjoying the company of a pet:

1. Reduce stress and improve mental well-being: According to research conducted in Europe, the presence of a dog helps lower blood pressure and heart rate during stressful situations. In Poland, similar observations indicate a significant role of dogs in the therapy of people suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.
   
   
2. Creating relationships and social integration: Walking with a dog is an excellent opportunity to make new friends. Research shows that people with pets, including dogs, are less likely to experience loneliness and social isolation. Participation in events organized for dog lovers in Poland shows how animals can help build strong social bonds.
   
   
3. Health and diet: Obesity is a problem among both people and animals. Research conducted in the European Union shows that dog owners have a greater tendency to lead a healthy lifestyle, which may reduce the risk of overweight both for them and their pets. It is worth noting that a healthy diet and regular physical activity have a positive impact on the weight and health condition of both parties.
   
   
4. Strengthening the human-animal bond: Good relationships with a dog require mutual respect and responsibility. In research conducted at the Jagiellonian University in Krakow, it was noticed that dogs that are properly treated show a greater ability to adapt, which helps build a positive and healthy relationship with the owners.
   
   
5. Walking for health: Regular walks are one of the simplest forms of physical activity, which benefits both humans and their dogs. Research conducted by the Institute of Sport in Warsaw found that people who regularly walk their dogs are in better physical condition and have a lower risk of weight problems.

By transforming everyday walks and playing with your pet into healthy habits, both owners and and their pets can gain in health and happiness.