7 Reasons that will motivate you to get a dog

“There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for you
we stick together, we can see it through
‘Cause you’ve got a friend in me
you’ve got a friend in me.”
– Randy Newman

A pet lover will definitely relate to this song as it brings into mind the greatest bond ever – man and his pet. There is a lot that we can learn from dogs. They teach us to live life to the fullest, love openly, to forget about our worries and to be affectionate. In other words, to become a better human being. For all those naysayers who feel that dogs are loud and dirty, here are a couple of reasons why you must consider having them for your well being:

1. They keep you healthy: Having a dog is like having your own personal trainer. He will keep you on your toes cum rain cum shine. They ensure that your old ticker is healthy by making you take the 30 minute brisk walk or jog every day. Research has shown that having your pet around you reduces your blood pressure level and the chances of succumbing to a cardiovascular disease. Also heart patients heal faster when they have their pets near them.
2. They can detect the presence of cancer: Dogs have an amazing sense of smell and for this reason they are most often used to detect bombs. But what most people are unaware of is that they can also help to detect the presence of cancer in your body. Just by your breath he can determine the presence of lung or breast cancer, or by constant sniffing he can detect the spot that is cancerous.
3. They can detect seizures: Remember the scene in Hachiko’s story where the dog does not allow his master to go to work as he knows something bad will happen. Well, his master dies of a sudden heart stroke. If only he stayed behind to listen to Hachiko’s warning! It is true that your pet can detect the oncoming of a seizure minutes before it actually occurs. He will ensure that you sit on not fall down with his insistent barking.
4. They boost your immunity system: Research has proven that a baby born into a household that is pet friendly will be less prone to asthma and other allergies. It has also shown that earlier the infants are exposed to dogs the lesser the chances they have of getting pet allergies later in life.
5. They provide security: Looking for a bodyguard? Well, look no further than your four legged buddy! With his awesome sense of hearing and smell he can detect the presence of burglars and other anti social elements. Just having your hound around you will improve your physical and mental well being.
6. They make you more social: When you take your dog out for a walk you may notice a lot of kids and friendly people trying to strike conversations with you. It helps you to make more contacts and be more social. It will also make you feel less lonely and not prone to depression.
7. They reduce stress: Just watching your pet snuggle up and lick you will make you feel mushy and very happy. It also reduces your level of stress by promoting the stress reducing hormone in your body called oxytocin. Your level of self esteem and self worth will also increase as you will be the primary care giver for your four legged chum.

So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and get yourself a pet dog, preferably adopt one. They will make your life worthwhile!   

Article by Harshitha