Reduce your stress with pets
By Julie Asbach
HTF Columnist
Bubba Sue decided to join me in doing some Pilates excercises. Photo submitted by Julie Asbach There are many reasons why pets are considered our best friends. They can offer great social support, help relieve stress and a few other health benefits. If you love animals it is hard to resist staying in a bad mood if your dog or cat is performing adorable pet acts. Studies have shown that people are less likely to suffer from depression if they own a pet. Blood pressure and heart rates were found to be lower in people who have pets. Also, owning dogs can make you get out and get some exercise if when they need to be walked, or enjoy walking more when we have companionship. Running, rollerblading or playing catch are other fun ways of improving overall health.
When you are out with your pet it is a good way of meeting people. It makes you more approachable to talk with. It is a great opportunity to increase your network of acquaintances, which is important for stress management. This world can seem awful lonely at times and it is unrealistic to expect people to be there for you all the time and especially with busy lifestyles. Pets can be there for you in a lot of ways that people can’t. They are great at listening and keeping secrets, hugging and snuggling! They don’t judge us; they just love us.Taking pictures is entertaining too; I get a little carried away taking photos of my pets in irresistible poses! Research has shown that nursing homes have reported less loneliness among residents when they are visited by dogs. Pets are definitely a great way of getting the support needed for an abundant life.
Stress relief for dogs
Some dogs can be stressed out. Certain breeds can be highstrung or nervous. Many dogs suffer from separation anxiety. There are a few methods to help calm your hyper pooch and relieve stress. For one make sure you’re feeding your dog properly and that means no sugar treats. Chew toys can be very effective in helping stress. Make sure the bone or toys are safe to chew on. Chewing helps relieve frustration and keeps them occupied.
Exercise is always an excellent way to relieve stress. Tossing the ball or playing catch are always good. My dog likes playing hide and go seek too. Also, walking at a fast pace releases endorphins, just like in humans, and enables your pet to experience an immense sense of well being.
A massage is also a wonderful way to relax your canine, particularly if they are muscular and/or highly active. Older dogs suffering with arthritis will also appreciate it. Apply gently at first, and they should groan, pant and roll over to show you how much they love it!
Using aromatherapy is a nice way to calm the pooch down. Spraying the room with lavender or soothing odors helps them to rest. Putting oils such as olive or coconut oils on their snouts if they’re dry helps them to breathe better. I know mine doesn’t snore as much!
Dogs like routines. So try to feed, walk, groom and send them to sleep at the same time. They appreciate a schedule, which helps give them a sense of stability and security.
Sources: lowstresslifestyle/a/petsandstress, the_art_of_stress_ relief_for_dogs
Julie Asbach is a Personal Fitness Trainer & Healthy for Life Advocate
