1. They help babies stay healthy by being dirty.
We receive hundreds of phone calls a year with people telling us they have to give up their dog because they are having a baby. Yes really, it's one of the top reasons. Well guess what expecting parents a study has shown that babies with dogs are actually healthier than those without dogs. The reason is because dogs will track in dirt, mud, thereby boosting the child’s immune system.
So parents next time you call saying you have to surrender your dog this is no longer a valid reason.
2. Help you stay in shape.
A study has determined that children that have dogs are more active, than kids without dogs. With America being one of the most obese countries in the world, this is a major benefit for proponents of exercise.
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3. Help you be more social.
British Medical Journal has found dogs act as “social catalysts,” who help people get out more, approach others more easily, and overall reduce isolation.
Now get out their and be a social butterfly with your dog.
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4. Reduce Your Risk Of Heart Problems.
The American Heart Association concluded that owning a dog, in particular, was “probably associated” with a reduced risk of heart disease. People with dogs certainly have more reason to go outside and take walks, and their presence declines peoples reactions to stress and lowers their heart rate.
Take that Cheerios.
5. Aid With Depression.
"Studies show that animals can reduce tension and improve mood. Along with treatment, pets can help some people with mild to moderate depression feel better. Having a dog gives you responsibility, and experts say adding responsibility can help aid depression. Dogs add new and positive focus in your life. Dogs remind you that you can do more than you might think.
6. Help Prevent Bullying.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, "nearly a third of all students between the ages of 12 and 18-years-of-age reported being bullied at school in 2007." Lately programs have been springing up all over the country using dogs to prevent bullying. Children identify with the dog when mistreated and transfer those feelings of compassion to their schoolmates.
7. They empathize with human pain.
Dogs may empathize with humans more than any other animal, including humans themselves, several new studies suggest. The Journal of Animal Cognition, found that pet dogs may truly be man (or woman's) best friend if a person is in distress. That distressed individual does not even have to be someone the dog knows.
