Studies have shown that living with a pet is good for our health. They help keep us from getting depressed, lower our cholesterol, and give us opportunities to get outside to exercise and meet new people. It’s no wonder that over half of all American households have at least one pet. And 78 million of those pets are dogs.
A Valued Member Of The Family
Much more than just a four-legged companion, our dogs are members of our family, our confidants, and oftentimes some of our very best friends. This means that they deserve the best products available. Unfortunately, a lot of pet owners focus more on the bottom line when it comes to purchasing everything from toys to betting and even food than on the quality of the products that they are purchasing. When it comes to the health and happiness of a dog, however, it is well worth taking a little bit of time to decide whether or not a particular product offers the best combination of quality and value for the money that a person is spending. There is no doubt we love our dogs.
Americans spent $51 billion on care in 2011, which means we spent roughly $25 billion on our dogs. That’s a lot of money for the furriest family member, but people obviously believe they’re worth it. It used to be that besides food and regular trips to the vets, the most you would buy your dog was a collar and leash and some chew toys. Now people are buying everything from special beds for their older dogs, steps to get into the car or bed, fancy dog bowls, and a wide variety of toys. We’re also spending a lot on services for our dogs from pet hotels to doggie daycare or daily dog walkers to get them out of the house while we’re at work.
What’s So Special About Them?
So why do we love our dogs so much? Studies have shown that there are real emotional and physical health benefits to owning a pet. They make us feel good and can actually help us live longer, two great reasons to own one.
They take the pres
sure of several studies have shown that just petting or interacting with a dog can reduce our blood pressure and stress levels, helping us relax after a hard day’s work.
You’ve got that loving feeling
One Japanese study showed that people who are bonded with their pets actually get a release of oxytocin, which is a chemical in the brain that helps us deal with stress. This is also the same chemical that helps mothers bond with their newborn infants, which may help explain why we can be so devoted to them.
Dogs as matchmakers
Dogs are a lot like babies when it comes to attracting attention. People are much more likely to approach you when you’re out walking your dog than if you were walking alone so they’re a great way to meet new friends, or maybe even that special someone you’ve been looking for. With all the benefits dogs bring it’s no wonder that people are so devoted to them. They come in all shapes and sizes, from long hair to short hair to even no hair. And they’re guaranteed to make you a happier, healthier person.
