Five ways your dog can help you look after your mental health

There’s no doubt that life in lockdown has put unprecedented pressure on many of us. Whether you’ve been missing loved ones, struggling to cope with isolation or tackling financial pressures, preserving your mental health has never been more important.

This week (18^th – 24^th May) is Mental Health Awareness Week and here at Grippy HQ we wanted to help you and your furry family get through these challenging times together. That special bond you have with your barking bestie has never been more important. So, we thought we’d put together a reassuring reminder of all the ways you and your dog are helping each other stay calm, happy and safe – and maybe spark some ideas to help you boost your mental health when times are hard.

1. Walking beats loneliness – According to a new survey of UK adults conducted by the Mental Health Foundation (MHF) during lockdown (2-6 April), 24% of people said they had experienced feelings of loneliness. Whilst short periods of time alone might be quite enjoyable for many, long-term isolation can increase your risk of mental health problems such as depression, stress and anxiety.  The MHF recommends going for short walks in public places to help ease feelings of loneliness. Recent Government advice suggests you can get out and about for longer and go further if you feel the need for more rigorous exercise, it’s all about finding the right balance for you and your dog. So, get those legs moving and those tails wagging and head outside to reap the benefits for your physical and mental health. Just remember to use your Grippy Lead to help you keep a safe 2m distance from other walkers.
2. Dog ownership reduces stress – There’s a whole raft of evidence to show that having a canine companion nearby reduces stress and anxiety. A recent study by MORE TH>N pet insurance found that four out of five pet owners who had been diagnosed with a mental health condition said their animal had helped them improve their condition. Stroking, grooming and snuggling with your dog releases happy hormones such as oxytocin which increase your overall sense of wellbeing. But you already knew that time spent with your dog is time well spent, right?!
3. Love and loyalty – If you’ve ever seen those big eyes looking lovingly back at you no matter what your mood, you’ll understand just how unconditionally your dog loves you. He doesn’t mind if you’re grumpy or stressed, he won’t judge you for feeling low and he’ll certainly never turn you down when you reach for a comforting cuddle or to give him some fuss. Studies have shown that owning a pup doesn’t just warm your heart, it can boost your heart health too, lowering triglyceride and cholesterol levels (indicators of heart disease) and improving survival rates in heart attack sufferers. Another amazing rewards of sharing your life and love with your dog during this stressful time.
4. Dog care leads to self-care = whenever you are taking care of your pet, you are more likely to take care of yourself too. Walking your dog becomes a great form of exercise for her and for you. Socialising your dog often leads you to connect with other likeminded dog owners (even when socially distanced), easing feelings of isolation. If you’re leaving the house to make an essential shopping trip, you’re more likely to buy food for yourself and feel prompted to eat when they eat.
5. Purpose and routine – Caring for your dog through grooming, training and petting creates a strong bond, similar to that between a parent and child, and gives you a sense of purpose. A daily walking, feeding and grooming routine will create the motivation you need to stay focused and keep going when things feel hard. Children too, can benefit from have dog care responsibilities. Allowing them to take charge of a daily grooming, feeding and exercise routine could offer them some much needed structure until their regular timetable resumes.

Of course, we mustn’t forget that responsible dog ownership is a long term commitment and won’t cure mental illness, however there are certainly many benefits for those who feel they have the time, money and love to share to keep their dog happy, exercised and healthy.

Fortunately, Government guidelines currently allow dog owners who are symptom free to get out and about for daily exercise so go grab your Grippy Lead (or click here to buy yours) and enjoy a walkies for your wellbeing.