It is a well-known fact that dogs have a very big impact on our lives, more than one can imagine. But did you know that you can live longer thanks to your dog?
Dogs help us to live longer
According to a new study, owning a dog is linked to a longer life. Researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden reviewed national registry records of Swedish men and women, aged 40 to 80. The 12 -year-long study, beginning in 2001, involved following health records of 3.4 million people who had no history of cardiovascular disease and whether they were a dog owner or not.
It was found that dog owners had a lower risk of death due to cardiovascular disease than people who did not report owning a dog, as well as a lower risk of premature death from other causes. People who lived alone with a dog had a 33% reduced risk of premature death, and an 11% reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, than people who lived alone without a dog.
How do dogs help us to live longer?
It’s possible that people who choose to own dogs may simply be more active and in better health to begin with. It is also said that petting a dog releases oxytocin (a hormone that helps to reduce stress) in your body as well as your dog's.
Scientists can’t say for sure that getting a dog will definitely make a person live longer, but if you are looking to adopt a dog then it is definitely not a bad idea! If you are in the capacity to take care of a dog, you should!
However, if you are more of a cat person and are wondering if cats have the same effect on humans as dogs do, check out Purrtherapy!
Do you think being a dog owner helps you to live longer?