I wish doctors could give different prescriptions than just, “take two tablets in the evening with plenty of water. Do not take on an empty stomach.”
Instead, they might say, “Care for a dog and enjoy their company. Take daily walks with them and cuddle your furry friend as recommended by your health professional.”
This is a prescription my psychiatrist wishes he could give to his patients who live with mental illness. At one of my regular appointments, we chatted about our dogs and the benefits of having them.
For me, owning a dog is better than medicine. My favourite health benefits include the oxytocin my body produces while cuddling my poodle mix, leaving me feeling happier and calmer; and getting out of the house each day to go for a walk with her, which is energizing, balances my mood, and is good for the whole body.
There is more joy, excitement, and fun with a dog at your side. Everything becomes a celebration. I cheer her on when she does her duty outside and eats all of her dinner. I play tug of war with her and chase her in circles.
When I sit on the couch she snuggles beside me and rests her head on my leg. She knows when I am feeling sad and walks up to me to see how I’m doing. She has a sweet personality and enjoys greeting everyone she meets with enthusiasm. When I enter the house she welcomes me with tail wagging and tongue licking. It is rewarding to spend time with her.
My dog’s behaviour also reminds me of how I can have a better posture for prayer. If I were to take a few lessons from this little furry friend it would be to lean not on my own strength but on the Lord’s, to trust in his care for every detail of my life, and to spend time with him in silence.
As I sit with my curly-haired dog, I see the importance of slowing down and spending quality time with my saviour. Jesus wants us to love him and choose his way of life.
In owning a dog, I’m more aware of the need for patience, peace, and empathy. If I want her to do something, I need to instruct her with words she can understand. If she wants to play, I need to give her my attention. When she curls up close to me I can see how she helps me with whatever emotion I am experiencing.
At creation, God gave Adam the responsibility of naming and caring for the animals. I’m so glad God gave us these lovely creatures to nurture. Having a dog is a wonderful gift for me and my family.
An openness to the joy a dog brings is something I didn’t expect to cherish. I am grateful for my four-legged friend, my delightful companion. I hope in challenging times you, too, can experience the happiness of dog ownership and if not, may you enjoy the presence of other people’s pets.
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