Dog Walking For Depression
If you don't have a dog, volunteer to walk one from your local Dogs' Home
DOG WALKING BENEFITS US IN MANY DIFFERENT WAYS - IT’S not just about physical fitness, but it also lessens depression. Several articles and studies are available which confirm this - such as this one - and you don’t have to be a dog owner to benefit. Finding a local shelter or home where you can volunteer is a first step.
How Dogs Lift Mood
Walking a dog gives you a sense of purpose, a bonding experience and increased contact with others - which all helps to enhance your mood. Men’s Health published an article which suggests that as many as 82% of people found dog walking improved their mental health.
BETH ASHTON, WHO STRUGGLED WITH DEPRESSION - told how her counsellors suggested she start with an imaginary dog to look after. Then, as she told Good Housekeeping, “I couldn’t believe the difference. I thought, ‘If I’m going through the motions of caring for an imaginary dog, why not try the real thing?’
She went on to fall in love with a tiny, 12 week old whippet she named Gracie and said,
“I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that Gracie changed my life – possibly even saved it.”
What Dog Walking Does For You
And it’s not just mood. According to a global study made in the US, dog owners are more likely to survive after having a heart attack than those without pets. Also, owning a dog can help to lower blood pressure, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels.
Scientists in Australia found that pet owners were healthier and made fewer visits to their doctor than those without pets, and in Germany, people who owned pets were healthier and made 15% fewer doctor visits. There are many reasons why dogs are known as man’s best friend after all.
Good To Know
The ASPCA is your first stop for fostering a dog or volunteer dog walking in America. In Britain The Dogs’ Trust can help as well as Battersea Dogs’ Home. Or if you are in Australia try the RSPCA and we also recommend the Lost Dogs Home in Melbourne
Older dog owners often need help, so look at local forums
One of the great things about dog walking for depression is the commitment - the dog relies on your for their exercise and you don’t want to let them down
Dog walking can lead to new friends and a better social life. Read this article by The Stylist for more
Walking also improves the mental health of dogs themselves, of course, according to studies such as this one