Do dogs hold holistic powers?

The Healing Power of Dogs Scientific research proves what many people have known for centuries: it's good to have a dog in the house. Dogs keep us company, help us stay active, and can even warn us of intruders. But did you know that dogs may improve the physical and mental health of their human companions? Early Warning Emotional Support Researchers at the University of Florida found that some dogs The Department of Defense pairs service dogs with soldiers returning from the Middle East. The dogs have can detect seizures and migraines before they occur by noticing things like quivering lips. been trained to nuzzle the soldiers when they sense signs of an oncoming panic attack. Immunity Boost Healing Touch Petting a dog can release oxytocin, serotonin, and prolactin in the brain, improving mood and reducing pain. Petting also lowers cortisol, a chemical Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco believe that exposure to the germs that dogs carry can give a person's immune system daily workouts. This can help associated with stress. to decrease the number of colds that a person gets. It might even lower a child's risk of developing asthma. OCD Treatment A trained dog can tell when their companion begins repetitive behaviors associated with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), such as washing hands repeatedly. The dog will then interrupt the behavior nudging them. Moving Motivation A 1996 study showed that dogs have a positive effect on the psychological states of people with ambulatory disorders. After a year with a service dog, the participants' need for paid services fell by 68 percent. People Over 54 Dog owners visit the doctor less often than people without dogs. They also take fewer medications than people without canine companions. Yearly Doctor Visits % on Medication Pet Owner 29% No 34% MEN Pet Pet 40% Owner No 50% Pet WOMEN In summary, living with a dog can offer many of the benefits of medicine. And there are no side effects! Adopt a Doggie! Disclaimer: You should always check with your doctor or professional healthcare provider before starting or changing any medical treatment. This infographic is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. ZocDoc Sources ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8596231 sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S105913110200225X nextstepservicedogs.org/facts-about-ptsd-and-service-dogs/ nbcnews.com/id/4625213/ns/health-pet_health/t/puppy-love----its-better-you-think/#.UZ01zcp0vPE abcnews.go.com/Health/dogs-cut-common-cold-risk-ways-dogs-health/story?id=16604565#.UZ0jMcp0vPF