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impulse
A New Leash of Life Things can be ruff sometimes, but the friendship between owner and dog is the ulti-mutt one to have. Too much? No, but seriously, dog therapy is a real thing. Words by Cara Blackhall
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ou may not think it’s true that dogs can provide you with therapy, but they can. It’s a different kind. I’m not talking about sitting opposite your puppy whilst they’re wearing glasses on a chair. I mean the comfort, love, and appreciation your puppy gives you. Your dog will provide you with boundless love, and will play a beneficial role in your life. According to The Kennel Club figures, 39,266 French bulldog puppies were registered in 2020 - an extreme jump from the 227 that were registered in 2000. There is something addictive and comforting about dogs. They have such an impact on our moods and how we feel. Our friendships and family bonds are key to living a happy life, and the bond between owner and dog can fulfil that role. For those who live on their own, that connection is even more precious. Scottish SPCA Chief Superintendent, Mike Flynn said, “Especially for single or elderly people, animals can be very important.
Sometimes, it’s their only way to talk to someone from one day to the next.” Everyday tasks that are needed to look after a puppy can work wonders for our mental health. The responsibility of making sure you take your dog for a walk every day is not only good for the pooch, but also means you get fresh air, and time to clear your thoughts. Dog owner, Wendy Irvine said, “They need walked, no matter how you are feeling, whatever the weather, and getting out and walking is good for the soul.” If you speak to a dog owner, they will tell you all of the aspects of having a dog that does wonders for their mental health. However, the increase in the number of dogs that were bought during Covid-19 could mean it’s the opposite for the pups. The ‘dog therapy’ we all think we need in our life isn’t always possible with every puppy. A study from PLOS ONE showed that 90% of pet owners said that their animals helped them get through lockdowns, but there is another side to impulsively buying a pet. Separation anxiety - a phrase worth emphasising. Dogs rely on their owners just as much as owners rely on their dogs. They want the cuddles, the attention, and the therapy. The companionship that a dog gets from their owner is extremely important. If they get used to you constantly being around, behavioural problems can
become an issue when you’re suddenly gone. Dogs Trust found an 82% increase in reports of dogs whining or barking when those in their household were unable to pay them attention – you can imagine how much it can impact them if you’re out the house all day. Mike Flynn said, “We’ve got people who bought pups in April 2020 that are now just going back to their office, so because it’s an adult dog, it’s never known a day in its life that there isn’t somebody in the house, and that is going to lead to other problems. “There was an 134% increase in the number of people phoning us up saying ‘I’m having problems; I want to get rid of my dog.’” Purchasing a puppy is not just about the cuddles. Purchasing a puppy is a commitment - a commitment worth sticking to. Of course, owning a puppy has its challenges. Not every responsibility is plain sailing, but if you make sure your animal best friend is happy and healthy, it will not go unnoticed. Buying a dog might be the new therapy, or at least, a form of it. They cherish, support, and love. The Oxford Dictionary defines ‘therapy’ as “the treatment of a physical problem or illness.” Spend some valuable time with your canine companion, and you’ll be reminded that as long as they’re around, you’ll always have their unconditional support.
Everyday tasks that are needed to look after a puppy can work wonders for our mental health.
Left Pawsing for thought
