According To Science, Dogs May Have Saved Our Sanity During Lockdown

Along with the global pandemic came countless mental health issues for many people around the world. Now, some studies suggest that sharing their homes with a pet during lockdowns will act as a buffer for psychological stress.

These studies come from the University of New York and have linked owning a dog to better mental health during times of stress. Around 90% of dog parents claimed their dogs have helped them cope with trying times, while also making them fit and active. However, around 68% of these parents said that they also worried for their dogs during the lockdown. With the strict restrictions and rules, they were worried that veterinary care wouldn’t be available.

Dog parents also were worried their dogs would come down with a sickness, or even get the virus. Apart from this, dog parents and their dogs supported each other in the worst of times. During this study, the strength of these emotional bonds also was built up even more. The more that we felt emotionally closer to our dogs, was the same that they were feeling as well. While having a dog clearly helped the mental health onsets in a horrible pandemic, we must count our blessings and cherish who is around us during this time.

Apart from dogs being there for emotional support, scientists have also discovered that birdwatching can bring many benefits to those who are in uncomfortable situations. Any interactions with nature were proven to be beneficial, ultimately helping those who don’t have a dog or cat. With more lockdowns coming up and countries still facing difficulties with the pandemic, we can rest assured that the more time spent with our dogs, the better off we will all be.