College can be stressful at times, with the workload, the time management and the never-ending social battery. Having a dog in college is a great way to reduce the stress that comes with college life.
While getting a dog at a young age can be intimidating, despite all the trials and tribulations during the college experience, it can be a great decision if you need a stress reliever, motivation to get exercise and just need some company in general.
Physical Health
Having a dog at school comes with plenty of benefits. One benefit is the physical activity. With a dog, you can get up and out of your bed early and go for a walk!
Daily exercise is a necessity for a dog’s well-being. This eventually becomes mutually beneficial because you get your daily intake of the outdoors. If you are having a rough day and are not in the mood to leave your bed, your dog will ensure you are getting outside and moving.
Mental Health
Another pro to having a dog at college is the benefits it has for your mental health. As stated in a recent BMC Psychiatry study,
“Qualitative studies illuminated the intensiveness of connectivity people with companion animals reported, and the multi-faceted ways in which pets contributed to the work associated with managing a mental health condition, particularly in times of crisis.”
Helen Louise Brooks et al.
This study acknowledges that having a dog with you helps with many conditions like PTSD, ADHD, depression and much more. Even if you are simply just having a stressful week, a dog will help you take your mind away from what is causing you stress by giving endless cuddles and keeping you company at all times.
Companionship
The unconditional love coming from your furry friend will help you ease into college life in no time and even provide great company. Being new to an area and not having as many friends right away can be scary, but when you have a dog by your side, you won’t feel lonely at all.
“Dogs aren’t called a ‘man’s best friend’ for nothing!”
www.emotionalpetsupport.com
Having a dog at a young age teaches you valuable life lessons and even prepares you for adulthood by having to take care of something other than yourself. It gives you the perfect balance between responsibility, while also benefiting your mental and physical health.
Tweet us if you have a dog at school and tell us why you love it @VALLEYmag!
