News item this morning! Dogs, great stress relievers! What do you think?

United Kingdom
October 22, 2008 4:18pm CST
I was watching my regular news program this morning and there was this lady that had been suffering from depression. She had this really cute dog sitting in her lap, it was absolutely tiny and she was saying how her dog had given her so much pleasure as well as love! By having a dog she felt so much happier and relaxed. There was also some research done on this which mentioned that, by having a dog, your blood pressure could also decrease and your immune system could benefit too. I don't have a dog but it has certainly got me thinking. I do love animals and I just wish that I had a dog. Do you have a dog yourself and how do you feel? Thanks for your thoughts. Andrew
6 people like this
19 responses
@Beruang (1309)
• Malaysia
23 Oct 08
I would agree with that. I think it does not apply to just dogs but to any other pets as well. Even cats or hamsters can let you release your stresses while playing with them or just by simply watching them. I think pets have been given by God a special power to release our stresses. Sometimes, just by watching our pets play among themselves or a single pet playing by itself would really calm us down. I used to have 10 cats and I know they had really made my day many times. Nowadays I do not have cats or any pet at home so if I need to calm down, I would just look outside the house for some neighbors' cats or dogs walking around or playing and that would be able to release my stress. Amazing what animals can do for you! Cheers!
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
Yes, I've noticed that! I don't have a pet myself obviously, I'm hoping that that time will come around! But, whenever I'm walking down the street and some chap is walking his dog I just have to kneel down and pat its head! I always have to touch and speak with the owner! I suppose I receive my little bit of therapy during those moments. That was certainly a lot of cats! Was your furniture intact during that period? Well, no one knows what is around the corner. I may pay a visit to Battersea Dogs home here in London. They try to rehome abused and neglected dogs. I would love to give a nice home to a dog that had suffered in the past, try and give it a better life. Anyway, that's something that will hopefully take place within the next few years. I'm not ready for this yet, finances and so forth! Thanks. Andrew
2 people like this
@Beruang (1309)
• Malaysia
24 Oct 08
Well, my furnitures are all damaged but I didn't really get upset about that as those can be replaced and not the cats... I hope that one day you would get a dog to share your place... Cheers!
@samijo719 (1052)
• United States
23 Oct 08
I have a little dog and he is my baby. He makes me really happy. SO I believe this could be true. When I come home and he's SO excited to see me and shows so much love it makes me really happy. And sometimes it's weird how they can sense when something is wrong. When I have hard times and laying in bed crying he will come up and start licking my face and curl up and a ball and not leave my side. It's like they sense something is wrong with you. They are very loyal and loving.
2 people like this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
How little? Do you hold it in your lap during the evening hours? I would love to do this, I'm sure that it would be a wonderful, relaxing experience! I think that's also nice about dogs, they always want to seem to lick your face and get all sloppy! Anyway, the day I pick up Fido will be the day I finally experience some peace and relaxation! Andrew
1 person likes this
@hmike_d (1529)
• Philippines
23 Oct 08
As what others call dog as man's best friend, i believe there's no gray area on it. Dogs are compassionate and loving and knows how you feel just seeing at your expression of face or gestures. Way back before, I have a dog and really a wonderful dog and it's such our house become full and consequently become a home. I treated as my little brother and a disciplined member of the family. We eat together, go to beach and everything we do, our dog is with us. I was really deeply hurt after he's gone. it's like we lost one member and drowned a lot. So i realized that when there's love for animals, there's a certain point that you'll really find value especially after he's gone. You'll really cry!
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
That's a nice contribution in relation to your own story. Have you ever thought of getting another dog? That's a great thing when you become emotionally attached to your dog! I have no experience of keeping a dog and so, I guess I have a lot to learn. I'm really looking forward to this experience someday though. I like the idea of having a labrador! I don't want a huge dog, just a medium sized dog that I can hold and cuddle on those cold winter nights! Andrew
1 person likes this
@bdugas (3578)
• United States
23 Oct 08
i have a peakinege and he is my rock. When I'm feeling dowm, I get down on the floor and play with him, he is always ready, he has a favorite toy and he don't want me to touch it so I try to get it and he puts his paws on it, so I can't. Sometimes when I am sick,he lays right beside me like he knows that I am not feeling good, we have had him for 8 years and he is more like having a kid. When I am playing with him, I forget all the worriies I have, so I believe it is a good thing to have a dog. Now we also have a cat, and I call him the CAT FROM HELL, always into something. But watching him do someof the things he does makes me laugh.
2 people like this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
What the heck have I been missing out on! I'm missing out on all these wonderful experiences that pet owners seem to be having. I suppose my time will come when I have a dog of my own. Cats can be quite cute too although I would have to watch myself on that one. Cats are very bad for my asthma, their fur and so forth. A dog will do just fine though. I love some of those gestures that dogs make, they're very playful! Thanks for your thoughts. Andrew
1 person likes this
@SaintAnne (5453)
• United States
23 Oct 08
I rather think its old news that dogs are great stress relievers. They're good companions and can lighten up your day no matter how bad it gets. We got a puppy more than a year ago. I was against getting one since I didn't want the extra responsibilities but now that she's with us, I can't imagine not having her around to make me laugh and just relax. Take care, Andrew!
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
When dogs are going through the puppy stage they are so adorable you could practically eat them! Dogs also do the funniest things don't they? I have yet to experience what it's like to have a dog around the home! I don't want to be getting a dog though when things are difficult. I guess there's the vet bills and vaccinations to consider. I'm not ready for that yet financially. Thanks. Andrew
• Belgium
23 Oct 08
well i have a dog and as well as love n affection you get off the, but i cant see how they reduce your blood pressure and your immune system can benifit from them i just can see how that is possible;
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
Hi, well they have scientific proof I guess that the health benefits of keeping a dog really work! Thanks by the way for making my discussion your first post! I hope you like it here at My Lot. I'm looking forward to having my own dog one day. I figure a golden retriever or a german shepard would suffice! Thanks. Andrew
1 person likes this
@BunGirl (2638)
• United States
23 Oct 08
I have four dogs along with a few other pets, and I have always said they're great for de-stressing. There's nothing better after a hard day than coming home to an animal who loves you unconditionally and wants nothing more than to be near you. Petting them is very soothing and playing with them can be a great way to work off any tension you might have. I don't know where I'd be if it weren't for my animals!
2 people like this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
It's nice to hear from all these animal lovers, I'm certainly learning a lot about the benefits that can be gained from keeping a dog. I just love the look of their eyes when they really focus on you, so cute and so adorable! Thanks. Andrew
2 people like this
@suehan1 (4344)
• Australia
23 Oct 08
yes i do believe that dogs do bring a lot of happiness and love to a lot of people.here in australia it is common for a nursing home to bring in dogs to a nursing home etc.the smile on all the oldies faces are priceless and they get a lot of enjoyment from this.i suppose it is a kind of therapy .cheers sue
2 people like this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
That's a great idea as regards the nursing home. They were even having a debate about how some doctors should start prescribing dogs instead of all those pills! I don't know how this would work though. Perhaps you would receive a dog for one day a month or something and it wouldn't cost you anything. Great idea but, would you become attached to the dog? Would you be able to see the same dog? I definitely need this kind of therapy! Andrew
1 person likes this
@snowy22315 (169897)
• United States
22 Oct 08
Dogs can definitely be helpful in making your mood lighter.
2 people like this
• United Kingdom
22 Oct 08
I guess getting a dog at some stage is very important. During the current climate though I think that this is impossible, I mean the credit crunch and so forth. I could definitely get into the habit of getting rid of my stress and a dog would be nice for that. I think it would be nice to go to one of those dog rescue places where some of the dogs need rehoming. Anyway, thanks for your thoughts. Andrew
2 people like this
23 Oct 08
I don't have any dogs myself, but live in a house share where the landlady has two dogs - both Jack Russells. When her boyfriend is round, he brings his Lurcher. They certainly brighten up my day, with their friendliness! Have you ever thought that 'dog' is 'god' spelt backwards!! When the three dogs are all in the house, they sometimes get quite excited, running up and down the stairs or the kitchen/dining area/conservatory; especially the Lurcher! My parents have two Golden Retrievers, which I have on my computer desktop wallpaper, pictured playing in my parents' garden. The picture is always good to look at before I get on the internet! :~) :~)
• United Kingdom
26 Oct 08
I like jack russels, they are cute! I've never thought about the word dog being spelt backwards as god but that is very interesting, they really do have god like qualities, loving, caring, unconditional love and so forth! I hope that I can have a dog by the time I reach retirement! A dog would be nice to have around when I eventually reach old age! Andrew
@kellyjeanne (1576)
• United States
28 Oct 08
Oh yes! Animals are a fantastic stress reliever! I feel the same way about Mija (my furbaby). She gives me so much love and makes me laugh. I guess I'm lucky because for a cat she is very affectionate. Many studies have been done regarding the connection between animals and stress. Pets are the best! Purrs, Catwoman=^..^= & Mija
1 person likes this
• United States
30 Oct 08
You're welcome Andrew! I really hope that you are able to get a dog soon, sweetie. Purrs, Catwoman=^..^= & Mija
• United Kingdom
28 Oct 08
You are lucky to have a pet of your own! I'm alone at the moment and I'm in desperate need of a pet! I will get myself a dog to keep me company, that's much later on though when my finances have improved and I'm no longer counting the change! Thanks Kelly. Andrew
@lisa0502 (1724)
• Canada
22 Oct 08
I definately agree. Having a dog is a stress reliever. I have dogs and I love sitting with them especially when I am feeling down. They just accept you and love you unconditionally.
2 people like this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
That's the thing I love about dogs too, how they show unconditional love, they never seem to judge you or anything. I really am missing out on a lot by not having a dog myself. Dogs are great ice breakers too I think! Whenever you walk your dog, dog owners tend to stop and talk to eachother which is nice. That's a nice moment that you can have with them, when you are sitting down with them on a cold winter's night. Getting a dog is going to have to be one of my future goals. Andrew
1 person likes this
@MARKDENN (30)
• Saint Vincent And The Grenadines
23 Oct 08
I strongly agree to this statement because firstly dogs are not a stress factor,people are.After all dogs are mans best friend.Dogs are more loyal than humans you know cause humans being are a complexed race.
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
Yes, I agree on the loyalty of dogs. They are a real treasure for that. I like the idea of running around in the park with my buddy! I cannot wait until that happens! Thanks. Andrew
• United States
30 Oct 08
Animals can be very theraputic. I also read that just the act of petting an animal can lower your blood pressure. I didn't know about the immune system, but it does make sense. Many hospitals even allow canine visitors and when my mother was in a nursing home for a while we often brought the dogs when we went to visit. Dogs are wonderful pets and I would never be without at least two. Right now we have 3. My little Yorkie is a real mama's girl. She is always within a few feet of me, loves to snuggle and she sleeps with me and keeps me warm. A few years ago I was very sick and she never left my side. You will never find a more true friend. If you do decide to get a dog, it is a good idea to research some breeds to find a dog that will fit your lifestyle. If you need some help with that, I'd be happy to assist.
1 person likes this
• United Kingdom
30 Oct 08
Hi, thanks for your information. I'm really keen on getting a dog at some stage, I'm not ready for this yet financially! I just think it would be nice to return home and there's your lovely Fido waiting for you! I love watching those dog training programs now, how the owners handle their dogs and so forth. I also live in a flat in one of these new complexes and I don't think you are allowed to have a dog in these! Still, thanks for your thoughts. Andrew
@cuttyrish (2667)
• United States
23 Oct 08
yeah, i agree that dogs are great stress relievers.. whenever i do not feel good or feel sad, my dogs always cheers me up.. they know when i am not feeling well also.. i am just happy whenever my dogs, are around me.,..playing with my dogs also help me relax...
1 person likes this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
I like that about dogs, the fact that they seem to have this extra sensory perception! They can tell when things are wrong as you say. I am in desperate need of some relaxation so I guess I'm going to have to bring the goal of getting a dog forwards quick time! But, then again, I have to suffer for a while as I don't have the means to support dog financially. In time though I will get my very own dog so that I can receive some of that long awaited unconditional love! Andrew
1 person likes this
@mimpi1911 (25464)
• India
23 Oct 08
Hi Andrew Dogs and for that matter pets are great stress relievers. They help us not only by giving company but also their agility makes us happy. People who keep pets are very happy and are always kinda busy with their activities. Its fun when a dog is around, no doubt. I used to have one but after she passed away I did not bring home any. It feels sad to lose your dear ones. But then that's like, we have live it.
1 person likes this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
I cannot wait until I eventually get a dog! I'm not going to rush out though and get a dog. I don't feel I'm ready right now. I guess I'm going to have to do a lot of thinking! I'm hoping that I can benefit later and start experiencing some of that unconditional love! Thanks. Andrew
@James72 (26790)
• Australia
23 Oct 08
Hi Andrew. I don't have a dog at the moment, no because I move around too much; but I have had several in the past. There have actually been many instances of dogs and even cats being used to create a claming and positive environment among people. Retirement Homes, Special Needs Schools and even hospitals and prisons have introduced programs throughout the world using pets to help people therapeutically. It has been shown that not just blood pressure and the immune system; but overall general well being is improved dramatically in people that have a constant association with these pets. I think it's a great initiative!
1 person likes this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
Hi James, how are you? That's understandable if you are travelling a lot, it would be quite difficult to keep a pet I think. I just so look forward to the day when I eventually have one of my own. I have to establish myself financially though! These difficult times that we are facing makes it virtually impossible to own a dog right now. I definitely need a companion in the form of a dog though. I just love the fact that they never judge you and they treat you as though you are the only human being in the world. Thanks again James, speak to you soon. Andrew
2 people like this
• India
23 Oct 08
i dont like to have pets....i would better like them at zoo....but i lovee em....dats why they shouldnt be kept at zoo bt should le them free.....as they are also like humans.....
1 person likes this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
That's understandable, pets are not for everyone. It's a big responsibility when it comes to looking after a pet. I love the animals in the zoo as well and it's a shame that they have to be locked up but I'm sure that they receive the best treatment that money can buy. Thanks for your thoughts. Andrew
23 Oct 08
As the news channel dont have anything to write they just fill the pages by doin such things moreover they also do some stupid thing which are not like by the peoples but what to do anyhow they just have to fill the news......
1 person likes this
• United Kingdom
23 Oct 08
So, you disagree then? It was quite an interesting topic that they wrote about though and it was based on research. Anyhow, do you love animals, particularly dogs? Andrew
1 person likes this