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BENEFITS OF BEING A FOSTER HOME

Adopting a dog not only helps your new pet, but it also benefits you. Recent studies have shown that dog owners see a number of improvements in their physical, mental, and emotional health. These benefits lead to happier and healthier lifestyles and may even lead to a longer lifespan. Findings from these studies show that dog ownership is associated with a 24 percent lower risk of death for all causes. For individuals who have had previous heart attacks or strokes, there is more than a 30 percent reduced risk of early death if the person owns a pet. One of the ways that having a dog makes you healthier is a significant reduction in stress. Cardiologist Dr. Marc Silver says, “Petting your dog is relaxing, but more than that, it can help lower your blood pressure and cut down on levels of a stress hormone. And, exercising is another way to reduce stress, which is something you are more likely to do when you have a dog.” Exercising not only reduces your stress level, but it also contributes to a healthier lifestyle. As Dr. Silver pointed out, dog owners are much more likely to engage in physical activity, which leads to healthier hearts and lower rates of obesity, as well as provides a host of other benefits. Dog ownership has also been proven to alleviate depression and anxiety. The simple act of sitting and petting an animal can help people feel better. Gary Christenson, the chief medical officer of Boynton Health at the University of Minnesota, says, “The calming presence and the social bond that pets bring can be very powerful. Animals give something to focus on instead of the negative thoughts a depressed person is prone to have. When a pet pays attention to you, they’re giving you unconditional love and acceptance.”

Rescue & Adoption

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