As a lifelong animal lover and dog enthusiast, I completely understand the profound bond many share with their pets. A recent survey by the publishers of the book A Dog Helps Everyone, involving nearly 1,500 respondents, delivers eye-opening results.
Strikingly, 63% reported feeling better with their dog than with their partner, while 74% preferred time with their dog over friends. Notably, these preferences were most pronounced among female participants, though further research could explore male perspectives.
Sandra Dekker, a certified cynological behavioral therapist and service dog coach, and author of A Dog Helps Everyone, isn't surprised. With years of expertise training service dogs, she highlights how dogs provide invaluable emotional support in our fast-paced lives.
Dogs help us disconnect from mental overload and reconnect with our emotions. I've experienced this myself through daily walks that clear my mind and reduce stress. They offer unconditional acceptance—a calming presence that helps children process anger or sadness, fostering emotional regulation. This benefit extends to other pets, making them ideal companions for families.
The survey underscores dogs' health benefits: 95% of respondents felt less lonely and happier, and 88% credited their dog for daily exercise. Participants emphasized honesty, respect, and unconditional friendship as the foundation of this human-dog bond—perfect for cozy couch sessions watching dog movies together.
Of course, even dogs can inspire a touch of neuroses in owners… like an obsession with poop bags! 😊
Drawing from real stories of service dogs, the book explores how these animals assist with autism, alleviate PTSD symptoms, and even detect dangerously low blood sugar levels through specialized training.
Curious? Find it at Bol.com.
