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Dogs: The Best Natural Remedy for Anxiety

Are you looking for natural ways to treat anxiety? Finding a pet for your anxiety is as simple as going to your local shelter

By Marco VieraPublished 4 years ago 3 min read

Are you looking for natural ways to treat anxiety? Finding a pet for your anxiety is as simple as going to your local shelter. Doctors and therapists recommend pets, particularly dogs, to improve mental health. (Learn more about emotional support dogs). Dogs are a great way to improve your mental and physical health. They don't require any training other than basic obedience. This is why emotional support dogs are so popular. This information will help you understand why dogs can be the best natural treatment for anxiety.

Dogs Encourage Exercise

Although it may be a controversial recommendation, it is true. It is important to exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle for both mental and physical well-being. Walking every day can have a profound effect on your mental health and reduce anxiety. On average, dog owners walk more than non-dog owners. Fido should be walked two times a day, with 30 minutes for each.

Natural Stress Relievers

Cortisol is the hormone responsible for fighting or flight. It's released when we feel stressed. Cortisol levels that are elevated for long periods of time can cause problems like high blood pressure and heart disease. Our stress levels are naturally reduced by cuddling, cuddling, and petting dogs. When we concentrate on our pups, it is easy to let go of all worries. The body releases oxytocin (the love hormone), as it cuddles and pets a dog. This is a natural antidepressant.

Companionship

Anxiety can make people feel lonely. Dogs can be a great companion and help owners feel less alone. Anxiety, particularly phobias and social anxiety, can make it difficult to leave the house. Dogs are loyal, supportive and always there for you on your bad days as well as being loyal and supportive.

Travel

Even those with no anxiety disorder, many people feel anxious about traveling. Anxiety can be triggered by airports being crowded and chaotic. Emotional support dogs can fly with their owners, sitting on their laps or in the space between their seats. There is no charge for pets. Flying with an animal companion can help you reduce anxiety and stress.

You can use dogs to alleviate anxiety. Dogs are recommended by licensed mental health professionals and therapists to people suffering from anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety and social anxiety. Dogs are great companions and encourage exercise, especially when traveling.

Start by visiting your local shelter if you are interested in a dog that can help you with anxiety naturally. Many dogs are in dire need of a loving home. They come in many sizes, breeds, and ages. Shelter dogs are great pets and are a good first stop. You can search a breed rescue group if you are interested in specific breeds.

Dogs truly are man's best friend and in a time where we could all use a little extra mental health care, I believe dogs can be something we should all focus on. Like humans, dogs also need help, because there are many dogs currently in shelters that are in need of loving owner's to welcome them into their family. I wasn't always a dog person, in fact, growing up I was completely terrified of dogs. But as I got older, I was able to see all the benefits dogs have provided countless people with and continue to provide people with every day. If you ever feel lonely, I would strongly encourage you to consider getting a dog, and it's best if that dog needs rescuing, because there are so many dogs in need that you could help.

Do you think dogs can help you cope with anxiety and stress?

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