Sometimes, we need people, and other times, we need pets. Dogs have been the solution for many of us. They offer us the intangibles - companionship, love, loyalty, purpose, and a sense of belonging. Training and incorporating them into our daily activities can psychologically bring us into safer places and help us grow emotionally.
Companionship During COVID
COVID-19 brought us many challenges: sickness, isolation, and mental health concerns. We faced periods of uncertain stress, heightened states of emotional turmoil, and loneliness, some of which we are still battling today. One of the ways we coped was by turning to our pets or adopting them. Research has shown that dog ownership provided people with a stronger sense of social support, which in turn helped buffer some of the psychological impacts caused by COVID-19. The stress of COVID led to unemployment and decreased consumer spending; limiting our social mobility. This contributed to higher levels of loneliness and social impairment, forcing us to stay at home with family, loved ones, and our pets.
Many dog owners, who we define as people with at least one dog, found solace in COVID-19, citing that they spent more time than usual with their pets. Generally speaking, research has shown that dog owners reported having more social support available to them than potential dog owners. They more frequently interact with other pet owners, which allows them to combat loneliness and depression with human interaction. This modality of human connection demonstrates why one study cites that dog ownership has been positively associated with psychological well-being indicators.
Dogs Provide a Mental Wellness Boost
In a self-reported questionnaire, 58% of respondents reported that their dog helped manage anxiety, and 57% reported their dog helped with depression. In the same study, 72% of pet owners indicated they would not have been able to get through the pandemic without their pets. Additionally, 91% reported that their pets were a significant source of happiness, and 94% said their animals positively affected their family.
Dogs have a positive impact on human beings; mentally, physically, and emotionally. This brings us closer together during times of trouble, with one study finding a close link between our relationships with one another. The study found that dogs in poor physical health were correlated to owners struggling with mental health issues. The more socialization owners provided their dogs, the less owners struggled with depression and anxiety. Demonstrating how important our relationships are with our pets and our mental health. We have to take care of ourselves before caring for someone else or each other.
Celebrate Your Dog with Our Personalized Pet Products
Dogs are our best friends, they provide us more than we could ever imagine. At Her 2nd Chance, we understand that more than most. Our Dog Lover collection has various products (mugs, tumblers, paper products, ornaments) that can be customized to celebrate you and your dog(s). Check out a few of our favorites below:
