HOW DOGS IMPROVE OUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH FURRY FRIENDS, HAPPY HEARTS
If you read our cover article, you learned about Mark’s dog, Lexi, and her positive impact on his family. Across the country, dogs are helping improve their owners’ well-being. Most dog owners can feel the difference their canines have on their physical and mental health, but did you know there’s science behind those feelings? Since October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, there’s no better time to explore the health benefits of owning a dog. After reading these, you might just consider adopting a new pet to the family! IMPROVED HEART HEALTH Many of us are facing high levels of stress daily. That stress stems from our work responsibilities, home life, and more. Over time, that stress can increase blood cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar, and blood pressure, putting individuals at risk for heart disease. Thankfully, owning a dog can help offset this risk. A comprehensive review of studies published between 1950 and 2019 suggests that dog owners have lower blood pressure levels and improved responses to stress. Furthermore, people who previously suffered a heart attack saw a reduced risk of death after living with a dog. MORE MOVEMENT Dogs come with plenty of responsibility. You have to play with them and take them for walks regularly. While it might feel tedious, it helps you reach
your movement and exercise goals. A study published by BMC Public Health found that dog owners, on average, walked 22 minutes per day more than people who don’t own dogs. Those 22 minutes quickly add up day after day.
STRONGER MENTAL HEALTH Dogs don’t just help our physical bodies; they also help improve our mental health. As mentioned earlier, just being around dogs helps us feel less stressed, which can help improve symptoms of anxiety. Dogs also help us fight against feelings of isolation and loneliness, as they operate as companions. Various studies have shown that dogs can help increase dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin levels.
TAKE A BREAK
The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
These ultra-soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies will melt in your mouth!
INGREDIENTS • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon baking soda • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 2 large eggs • 2 cups (12-oz package) semi-sweet chocolate chips
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 375 F. 2. Combine flour, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl. 3. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until creamy. 4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until blended. 5. Gradually beat in flour mixture. 6. Stir in chocolate chips. 7. Arrange dough in rounded teaspoonfuls on ungreased baking sheets. 8. Bake 8–10 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; move to wire racks to cool completely.
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