2023-08-10 00:09:00
At a time when stress and mental health issues are on the rise, the fascinating bond between humans and dogs offers insight into a therapeutic relationship that goes beyond simple companionship.
The relationship between people and dogs that has profound implications for mental and physical well-being.
Interactions with dogs
Petting a dog, even briefly, has been shown to improve your health for months. It’s more than just a moment of well-being, as numerous studies have revealed a profound physiological response to this simple act.
A growing body of research suggests that interactions with dogs may have a lasting positive impact on health. In fact, these brief positive experiences are powerful enough to reduce stress hormones and increase oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.”
Animals improve our thinking skills
The authors of a recent study found evidence that even brief moments of quality time with a good dog can also help people “think better.” Short, bi-weekly interactions between school children and dogs have been found to improve the thinking skills and concentration of youngsters, with the positive effects lasting for months.
“I think it’s safe to say that animals are beneficial to our mental and physical health. We’re seeing some really nice effects,” said Professor Nancy Gee, director of the Center for Human-Animal Interaction at Virginia Commonwealth University.
The VCU Center is at the forefront of a burgeoning field of research into the health benefits of human-animal interaction. Supported by organizations such as the US National Institutes of Health and the Waltham PetCare Science Institute, this exploration has grown rapidly.
Dogs reduce our stress level
Professor Gee told NPR that research into the health benefits of dogs has exploded in recent years and the quality of evidence has improved. She said there is growing evidence that levels of the stress hormone cortisol drop in people following just five to 20 minutes spent interacting with dogs, even if it isn’t. does not act regarding their pet.
Last year, a comprehensive review by Australian medical researchers and psychologists looked at 129 peer-reviewed studies. They found that more than half of these surveys recorded positive physiological changes in people who spent as little as five minutes with a dog.
love hormone
”Additionally, we’re seeing an increase in oxytocin, this sort of feel-good hormone,” Gee told NPR. This research found changes in people’s heart rhythms, known as ‘heart rate variability’ (HVR), a sign of overall health improvement.
A higher HVR has been associated with relaxation, while a lower HVR is associated with serious health risks. “What I love regarding this research is that it’s a two-way street. We see the same thing in dogs. So dogs’ oxytocin also increases when interacting with a human,” Professor Gee said.
Cognitive gains
International collaboration plays a key role in understanding these phenomena. Gee’s work with the University of Lincoln’s research into regular play time with dogs found significant benefits for schoolchildren, reducing stress and improving “executive functioning.” Remarkably, these cognitive gains proved to be long-lasting.
“We actually saw (these effects) a month later. And there is evidence that (they) may exist six months later,” Gee noted.
Less risk of heart attack
But transient interactions with dogs aren’t the only source of health benefits. A meta-analysis published by the American Heart Association linked dog ownership to a significantly reduced risk of death and heart attack for survivors who lived alone. Overall, living with a dog has been found to reduce the risk of death by 24%.
Megan Mueller, professor of psychology at Tufts University, ponders why dogs might have such a profound impact on humans. “Animals, and dogs in particular, live in the moment,” she told NPR. “They experience their environment with wonder and admiration all the time. »
“They don’t talk regarding what happened to them earlier today or what they are thinking regarding in the future. They are there right now.
Learn more regarding the human-dog bond
The bond between dogs and humans is one of the most famous and complex relationships in the animal kingdom. This connection goes back thousands of years and has deep biological, psychological and social components. Here is an overview of the main factors that contribute to this unique relationship:
Historical perspective
Dogs were one of the first animals to be domesticated, with evidence suggesting the process of domestication began 20,000 to 40,000 years ago.
Initially, humans may have been drawn to wolves (the ancestors of domestic dogs) for their hunting prowess. Conversely, wolves might have benefited from human remains and protection. Over time, this relationship evolved into a mutualistic one, with humans and dogs working together for hunting, herding, and protection.
Biological connection
Dogs and humans share a unique hormonal connection. Studies have shown that interactions between dogs and their human companions can increase levels of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and affection, in both species. This creates a positive feedback loop that strengthens the bond between dogs and humans.
Social structures
Dogs have social structures that are in some ways similar to human social structures. They are beasts of burden and understand hierarchy and roles within a social group. Many dogs view their human family as their pack and fit into that structure, obeying a leader and often fulfilling a specific role within the family unit.
Communication
Dogs have an incredible ability to understand human gestures, expressions and even words. Although they may not understand human language like humans do, they can learn to associate specific sounds and gestures with actions and rewards. This mutual understanding fosters a deeper connection and facilitates training and cooperation.
Emotional support and companionship
Dogs provide emotional support and companionship to many people. They can sense human emotions and often respond with empathy and support. This has made them invaluable as therapy animals and companions for people living alone or going through difficult times.
Usefulness and labor relations
Throughout history, dogs have served humans in a variety of professional roles, such as hunting, herding, guarding and, more recently, assisting in police and military work and l assistance to people with disabilities. This fostered a sense of partnership and collaboration between the species.
Challenges and responsibilities
Although the relationship between dogs and humans is often positive and fulfilling, it also comes with significant responsibilities. Proper care, training, and an understanding of a dog’s needs are essential for a healthy relationship. Some challenges, such as behavioral issues or misunderstandings, may arise, but with proper knowledge and effort, they can usually be overcome.
The bond between dogs and humans is rich and multifaceted, rooted in our shared history and a complex interplay of biological, social and emotional factors. Whether as work partners or beloved pets, dogs have become an integral part of human society. They provide companionship, support and joy to millions of people around the world.
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