Back when my husband and I had a farm, we'd go out just before Christmas to the animal shelter and bring home a dog that was likely not going to make it into the new year. We had a small grey terrier that someone had painted blue - named "Holly", the scourge of the barnyard and one year a proud Bouvier we named Beau because he truly was beautiful, if intractable. We saved them and then found them homes. Gypsy, a great funny sheepdog cross, we kept.
There were more through the years, plus "our own" doggie crew. Remembering makes me smile.
This year Lucy came into my life and boy, am I glad. True, I'm not as footloose and independent as I have been, but then when you take a dog into your life, especially a rescue dog, you soon realize independence is totally overrated.
Unconditional love is 'way better!
- Companionship:
Dogs are known as "man's best friend" for good reason. They offer unconditional love and loyalty, providing emotional support and constant companionship. Dogs can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression, especially for those living alone or experiencing social isolation. Their presence can bring joy, laughter, and a sense of purpose to daily life.
- Health benefits:
Owning a dog encourages a more active lifestyle through daily walks and playtime. This increased physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and help maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, interacting with dogs has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels by lowering cortisol and increasing oxytocin, often called the "love hormone." Some studies even suggest that dog owners have a lower risk of heart disease and improved recovery rates after heart attacks.
- Saving a life:
Millions of dogs enter shelters each year, and many are euthanized due to overcrowding. By adopting, you're not only saving that dog's life but also freeing up space and resources for other animals in need. Adoption helps combat the problems associated with puppy mills and irresponsible breeding practices. It's a compassionate choice that makes a real difference in animal welfare.
- Teaching responsibility:
Caring for a dog requires commitment and consistency. This can be an excellent way to teach children about responsibility, time management, and the importance of routine. For adults, dog ownership can also foster personal growth, encouraging patience, empathy, and better work-life balance. The daily tasks of feeding, walking, and caring for a dog can provide structure and purpose to one's life.
- Security:
Dogs have a natural protective instinct and can serve as an effective deterrent to potential intruders. Their keen senses allow them to alert their owners to unusual sounds or activities, providing an added layer of home security. Even smaller dogs can be effective "alarm systems" due to their acute hearing and tendency to bark at unfamiliar noises or people.
Image by Fale Llorente Almansa from Pixabay