A Cumbrian vet has paid tribute to the important contribution animals make to people’s health and wellbeing.
Graham Lewis, along with local dog owners, spoke out in what is Mental Health Awareness Month and National Walking Month.
“The benefits of owning pets are sometimes overlooked but research – and many people’s firsthand experience – shows they can be a hugely positive influence in our lives helping us with mental health, fitness and difficult experiences like bereavement,” said Graham, who is a small animal vet at Paragon Veterinary Group.
Studies suggest that dog ownership for example improves cardiovascular function, increases physical activity and reduces stress.
“Research has shown how important pets can be for our wellbeing. In one study, pet owners were found to be 41 per cent less depressed than non-pet owners, in another UK survey 87% of dog owners said their pets make them feel mentally healthier” said Graham.
“Pets provide great companionship, they provide routine in the day and also require exercise which is another natural antidepressant.
“Regular exercise has been shown to reduce depressive episodes by up to 25 per cent and as a dog owner I know myself that having dogs means regular exercise.”
At a time when loneliness is a growing social issue, pets are often the link enabling people to make new friends and speak to others in their community, says Graham.
Jacqui Dally from Thursby, says her five-year-old Labrador Matty makes a huge difference to her wellbeing.
“I live alone and have done so for some time now, so Matty is my companion who keeps me very active,” said Jacqui.
“I broke my ankle two years ago. I recovered quickly as I wanted him home with me, but I knew I would have to be able to walk him. I was therefore on my feet as soon as I could be.
“Matty is the reason I get out of bed every day and he is an absolute joy to be around.”
Donna Hall rescued her Border collie Midget, only for Midget to later help Donna through losing her mum.
“I got her when she was three months old. A farmer had an accidental litter and was going to shoot her,” says Donna, who lives at Hethersgill and is a registered veterinary nurse at Paragon.
“When my mum was sick with terminal cancer I had to really step up and take care of her. When I lost her in 2020, I really struggled. I didn’t enjoy anything anymore, I didn’t even enjoy my horses.
“I always called Midget my little ray of sunshine. There was always one point in the day when she had me smiling and she got me out of the house to walk her.”
Donna was just 24 when her mum Josie died, and it was also the time of the Covid pandemic.
“I was off work sick looking after mum and then I was put on furlough. It was just me and Midget and mum in the house at that time,” she says.
“It was nice to always wake up to Midget and to come home to her once I had got back into work. I came back to work and was signed off again, but she was always my constant.”
Donna says the role of dogs in supporting people’s mental health can’t be underestimated.
“It’s massive. Just from cheering you up or having the company, it’s nice to know your dog will always love you.”
Then select "Add to Home Screen"
