Value Of Pets For Anxiety

[triceps]

I've got a dog named "Blu". She was a shelter dog from the Humane Society that my wife made me get to help me in many ways. Blu really helps me stay "centered" in my thinking which can get really negative and paranoid if I'm completely alone. She gets me outside for walks which usually wouldn't happen otherwise. She's a great companion, almost to a fault as she follows me everywhere around the house. A great non-judgemental listener except when it's close to her mealtime. She sleeps between my wife and I (am convinced that's the real reason my wife pushed my getting a dog) and rarely wakes us up in the middle of the night for some dog related reason. I've had Blu for three years now and so she's four years old. Her only downside with my having anxiety is that I'm already worrying about when she dies someday. But for me having a dog is absolutely great for my anxiety, invaluable.

 

[He Man]

Triceps, I also think pets help put our situation(s) in context. Even if we're at a point where we're suffering a lot, or (temporarily) isolated from the outside world.. the pets are still relying on & needing us.. Still receiving our love etc..They remind us of life beyond ourselves.

Same theory applies to our kids & significant others.. but many times pets are easier to get along with..

 

[Steven]

I’d agree pets are helpful for anxiety sufferers. Like you, I often take my dogs on walks just as sort of an excuse to get outside and get some fresh air.