Is Dog Ownership Good For Your Mental Health And The Elderly?
Yes! There are numerous studies done all across America that support dog ownership. There is even such a thing as an Emotional Support Animal. For example, the ADAA (Anxiety and Depression Association of America) states, “In a survey of pet owners, 74% of pet owners reported mental health improvements from pet ownership, and 75% of pet owners reported a friend’s or family member’s mental health has improved from pet ownership.” There are clear benefits to owning a pet and that’s why therapists everywhere are prescribing pet ownership. While there are certain drawbacks to pet ownership, like your dog stealing your comforter or getting into the garbage, the benefits far outweigh any risks or possible deterrents for future pet owners.
It’s crazy to think that owning a dog can make such a big difference in anyone’s emotional state or even life. However, dogs can and do make huge differences in the lives of young people but even more so, the elderly. The elderly have a special connection with animals. They provide comfort when the dog’s owner is not able to socialize with other people or even their own family.
So What Are The Benefits?
There are tons of possible mental benefits to owning a pet. Some of these include alleviating stress, anxiety, depression, and even social isolation or the feeling of loneliness.
Stress
Stress is a big part of our daily lives. It’s just something we have to deal with. However, animals can help relieve this stress by simply being around them. Animals are naturally comforting.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a part of a lot of peoples lives. Owning a dog can help relieve anxiety. Many therapists are beginning to suggest therapy dogs or emotional support dogs to help relieve anxiety; even over traditional medication in some cases. 
Depression
Depression has darkened many people’s lives. While treatment and medication can be very helpful, there is no set cure for depression. However, in some cases, a dog specially trained as an emotional support animal could help suffers cope with their difficult symptoms and find meaning.
Loneliness and Social Isolation
Loneliness and Social Isolation are two of the most common mental health problem adults face. It’s hard for most people to overcome the feeling of being isolated from everyone else. Especially when you move to a new area or start a new job. Owning a pet can help resolve soften this feeling; after all, having someone who is excited to see you when you walk through the door each day is a quick shortcut to happiness.
At an older age, people tend to get lonelier. Dog ownership can help counteract this issue. While the companionship of others is crucial to leading a healthy and fulfilling life, connecting consistently with an animal has helped millions of seniors feel seen when loved ones are inaccessible. Some assisted living facilities even keep dogs as staff members to befriend their residents.
“Dogs and cats live very much in the present,” says Dr. Jay P. Granat, a New Jersey-based psychotherapist. “They don’t worry about tomorrow, which can be a very scary concept for an older person. An animal embodies that sense of here and now, and it tends to rub off on people.” Dogs provide the emotional support their owners need while also helping the elderly live in the moment, creating memories whenever they can.
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