Not All Heroes Wear Capes: The Unsung Heroes in our Homes

Hello, everyone! Today, we are discussing the incredible, positive impact which a pet dog can have on a person’s mental health. I have been very open before about one of the reasons why we initially adopted our rescue greyhound, Niko – we hoped that a furry companion could aid me with the anxiety I was struggling with a few years ago. Well, undoubtedly, Niko has helped me more than I can put into words – on some days, he has been my absolute hero; on other days, he has been my best friend; in moments, he has simply been a quiet, calm presence, bringing a smile to my face when I had forgotten how.

I am extremely happy to say that, these days, my anxiety is very much in check and very rarely rears its ugly, unwanted head in my life. However, I credit so much of this to our adorable, goofy, loyal pooch, who will never know what he has done for me (particularly during the Covid lockdowns!). So many people credit us for rescuing Niko… I often correct people that, in fact, he has rescued me.

So, reflecting on my own experience has made me want to raise the question: in what ways can a dog help to improve a person’s mental health?

1. Firstly, an abundance of studies has shown time and time again that having positive experiences with a dog can instantly increase a person’s oxytocin levels: the “happy hormone” which can reduce a person’s stress or anxiety. A recent investigation found that, when a large number of dog owners were studied as they interacted with their pet dogs, the owners’ oxytocin levels peaked for 1-5 minutes after their interaction. Who knew canine cuddles could impact your body’s chemistry so much!

2. Secondly, pet care and self-care are so clearly intertwined! Having a pet dog means taking them for daily walks. A recent study showed that, on average, a dog owner will walk their pooch 1,000 miles in a year! This means exercising, fresh air and even socialising with other dog owners – all remedies which can prove helpful if someone is having a tricky day.

3. Then, there is the awesome way that a pet dog can help to combat loneliness, with 92% of dog owners agreeing with this statement. I always think about the happiness Niko brings me by being another heartbeat in our home when I am alone; his presence can be such a comfort and joy and his company brings me so much happiness.

4. Next on the list for ways dogs can improve a person’s mental health is their sheer authenticity. Dogs cannot lie about their emotions and they have no agenda, and this can be so mentally refreshing. When I get home and see Niko’s wagging tail as I open the front door, it is just magical – it is pure, beautiful emotion. Additionally, if he is sat next to me on the sofa and yawns his head off or lets out a huge sigh, I don’t take it personally as I might do for a human – there is something so reassuring in the straight-up, honest, uncomplicated relationship with a pet pooch!

5. Finally, dogs are so incredibly patient with our emotions. They are loyal and won’t walk away when they get fed up of you (well, not always!). They will love you unconditionally – on your mentally good days and your bad – and there need be no fear about being raw around them. You don’t have to talk or explain yourself – they will listen regardless and accept you even in your worst moments.

There are many other fabulous ways that dogs can help a person with their mental health – I have merely named a few. However, what I have learnt myself from writing this post is that dogs should not be underestimated – they can be the unsung heroes of a home. Their loyalty, companionship and patience should be celebrated. I, personally, feel so astoundingly lucky to have Niko in my life. He will never know what he has done to support me – whether it be going for a walk and breathing in some fresh air, being the reason to attend a greyhound community walk and socialise, or just being there for a cuddle after a long day. To me, he is marvellous.

So, if you are looking to adopt a dog in the future, don’t forget about the admirable qualities that a pooch might bring to your life – it isn’t just all about you saving them!

Until next time…

Love and snoot kisses,

Berry x