If you are like me, you probably struggle with some sort of mental illness that makes everyday tasks difficult. For me, those issues are anxiety and depression. A little over a year ago, I found myself hitting rock bottom and no matter what I did, I couldn’t bring myself back. I went back on my medication, but it only numbed the pain. I wanted to have something in my life to make me happy, so I decided to get a dog.

My Border Collie was a troubled pup. At ten months old he’d rarely left the house, had never been off his retractable leash, and had no idea how to handle new dogs or people. I knew I had to get him out of that situation, even if it meant having to re-home him later, so I took him home. It turns out he just needed a bit of tough love and a bit of experience. Now he’s my best friend, and he saved my life.

He and I were able to grow together. He gave me the opportunity to be happy, and I gave him a normal social life. With all the good that has come out of having my dog around, it’s no wonder so many people are signing their pets up as emotional support animals. But why are dogs, in particular, man’s best therapy?

A Longer Life

If you are a dog lover, you know the feeling you get when your pooch snuggles up beside you. But do you know how your body reacts to that warm fuzzy feeling? You relax, and relaxing can do a great deal for your mental and physical health.

Your blood pressure lowers, heart rate slows, and your breathing regulates when cuddling with Fido. Naturally, with a healthy body comes a healthy mood. Studies show that dogs and cats have the ability to extend one’s life. In a study of over 400 heart attack victims, those with pets had a much greater survival rate after one year than those who did not have animal companionship.

My Border Collie, Aoi, has allowed me to feel better both physically and mentally. He has encouraged me to spend more time outside, go on long walks, and go places with him. With my improved mood, I’ve even found the courage to return to the gym and lose weight. And because he loves to cuddle, I get plenty of relaxation time with him which helps regulate my heart health.

In Good Company

This is where I feel the divide begins between cats and dogs. While some cats are friendly and lovable, most of them are independent creatures. What makes dogs so unique is their close bond with humanity. Dogs love having you around, whether it’s chasing a Frisbee outside or relaxing on the couch.

Depression is a major problem, and oftentimes it stems from loneliness. Dogs can be that support system for those of us who struggle in social situations. In my case, I even find myself going out and meeting people more often because of Aoi. Not only is he a great companion, but he gives others a reason to stop and chat. I’ve even made some friends thanks to the dog parks and socials we have been involved in.

Elders who do not own pets are FOUR TIMES more likely to develop clinical depression than those who live with an animal companion. Furthermore, playing with your pooch gives you a boost of serotonin and dopamine, leaving you feeling happy and relaxed.

Reading Minds

Well, not literally. But dogs are in-tune with human emotions, especially those of their owners. They are able to recognize tone, body language, and gestures to determine how their owner is feeling.

I always thought this was a myth people believed to make themselves feel better. I had never bonded that closely to our family pets, so I never felt my previous dogs could tell when I was sad or angry. But Aoi will recognize when I am upset, and when he does he comes over and lays his head on my chest.

While its questionable whether a dog can truly empathize with human emotions, studies have made it clear they understand human body language on an advanced level. Dogs are able to understand that when people cry or make themselves small there is something wrong. And even if they do not understand what it means, they will be right beside us when we need them the most.

Make it Routine

Dogs are creatures of habit, and as they adjust to your lifestyle they will find a schedule which they expect to follow. They expect food, potty breaks, and playtime to occur at regular intervals, and it’s our responsibility to provide them with these regularly. No matter how you feel, you are always obligated to give your pup the attention he deserves.

Feeding is the easy part. Walking our dogs and giving them proper exercise is where it gets more challenging. But these are important activities for our furry friends if we want to prevent accidents and messes. A happy, well-exercised dog is much less likely to become destructive.

Sometimes, it’s hard o get out of bed. But when you have responsibilities to your pet, you no longer have the choice to roll over and hit the snooze button. In other words, your dog will get you up and moving even on the days when it feels like an impossible task.

Dogs have always been known as man’s best friend, but they are much more than that. They keep our lives happy and healthy, and provide the same comforts and emotional support that is expected from human companions. Don’t let mental illness keep you from living your life. Instead, try bringing a dog into your life to lighten the load. You won’t regret it: I certainly don’t.