Owners already know dogs boost mental health, but now science backs it up: women may live longer with a dog, according to research by Florida Atlantic University.
The new study involved 28 female veterans, aged between 32-72, who experienced anxiety, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) working with service dogs – which are ultimately destined to help other wounded soldiers.
They took part in one-hour sessions each week for eight weeks. One group helped train them, while the other watched dog-training videos for the same period.
Participants in the group that helped train dogs displayed an increase in telomere length – showing a slowing in cellular ageing – and reported a 'significant' improvement in mental health, too.
Overall, the findings, published in the journal Behavioral Sciences, reveal 'promising' biological benefits associated with service dog training, particularly for veterans who've experienced combat, which could be an alternative to drug therapy.
Furthermore, the study suggests that you don't have to own a dog to reap the rewards - just spending time with them can be beneficial.
Prof Cheryl Krause-Parello, the associate vice-president for the Florida Atlantic University research and first author of the study, said: "Female veterans face unique reintegration challenges that are often overlooked, and traditional PTSD treatments don't always meet their needs.
"Non-traditional approaches like connecting with animals can offer meaningful support. These relationships provide emotional safety and stability, which can be especially powerful for women."
Findings only bolster previous research which shows that dog owners – male and female – report fewer visits to the GP (and are less likely to experience heart problems and sleep issues), have better cardiovascular health, thanks to an increased motivation to exercise and are less likely to be lonely.
And for those that can't commit to dog ownership, there are other options like Borrow My Doggy and volunteering options with the RSPCA and Dogs Trust.
12 easy-to-clean waterproof dog beds
The Earthbound Classic Waterproof Dog Bed is the ultimate in hard-wearing dog luxury, featuring a premium heavy duty waterproof polyester outer, while the removable (and reversible) inner cushion features waterproof polyester on one side and a soft sherpa on the other, making this the perfectly practical cosy spot for you dog to rest after an adventure outdoors. The Earthbound Classic Waterproof Dog Bed is machine washable at 30 degrees, for easy removal of muddy paw prints and odours.
Designed for comfort, Bedsure beds are filled with premium microfiber in separate chambers and ultra soft reversible design. This pet bedding creates the ultimate place for your pet to rest and relax. The beds have a durable scratch-resistant surface and designed to resist water like dog sweat or urine.
danish design Danish Design - Blue Maritime Box Duvet
This Danish Design Maritime Blue Box Duvet bed features combinations of linen look stripes and denim look textures in three relaxed colour-ways, all highlighted by a special nautical edition of the Danish Design embroidered paw.
Ellie-Bo Waterproof Dog Beds in Green - Tailor made to fit cages and crates (34" - Fits 36" Large Dog Cage)
This Ellie-Bo Waterproof Dog Bed features a removable and machine washable waterproof outer cover made from Oxford weave. It also has a waterproof and breathable inner cover.
Guaranteed4Less Dog Bed Mattress Cushion Waterproof Double Sided Puppy Pet Pillow Mat Washable (Medium, Red)
This popular paw print pet mattress has a double sided waterproof pet cushion with carry handle and paw print motif. Both sides are waterproof but only one side has the printed motif. It has a zip fastening with removable cushion.
AllPetSolutions Dexter Beds Soft Waterproof Washable Hardwearing Basket Dog Bed (M, Grey)
The waterproof hard wearing Oxford fabric is easy to clean, highly durable and is suitable for dogs of all breeds and sizes. The bed cover zips off, making it easy to remove for cleaning. The cover is 100% machine washable. Non-slip backing, ideal for use on polished floors and tiles.
This Orvis bed has a soft quilted sleep surface, and a streamlined bolster make it comfortable for your dog. The ComfortFill-Eco cushion is made entirely from recycled plastic bottles and doesn't flatten or clump.
The three-sided bolster provides security and support for dogs who prefer a place to lean or rest their head, whilst the one open side makes this bed easy for dogs of all ages to get on and off. The upholstery-grade cover is as durable as it is incredibly soft. 100% polyester. Washable. Personalise with embroidery, up to 15 letters.
HarleyandCho YELLOW Dog bed with removable cover / bright dog nest MUSTARD / XS - Xxl size mat for dog, Gift for dog owners
This best-selling yellow dog bed comes with a machine washable removable cover. It's made of high-quality furniture fabrics, which allows your pet to feel very comfortable inside. Elastic pillows provide pets safety and comfort.
This waterproof pet mattress helps your dog relax and sleep comfortably by keeping them supported, warm and dry. The laminated fabric of the bed helps to repel water and although the bed is strong and durable, it is still comfortable for them to sleep or rest on. The removable cover and removable internal pad are both machine washable for when you need to clean it.
This Petface water resistant mattress is designed to help keep your dog's bed clean. It comes with a removable berber fleece top cover which you can easily take off and reattach with the poppers. The removable cover is machine washable and the wipe clean base makes cleaning super easy. The non slip backing helps to keep the bed still as your dog gets on and off.
P&L Country Dog Tough Heavy Duty Rectangular High Sided Waterproof Dog Beds in 3 Sizes Medium, Large & XL/Jumbo
The ideal dog bed for country dogs who get wet and dirty on a regular basis. The tough, heavy duty, hard-wearing, 100% polyester, waterproof material is easy to keep clean. The thick base cushion is removable and the high walls of this bed are filled with bonded thermal polyester fibre to insulate your pet from the cold floor and keep it out of draughts.
This dog bed is thickly padded on all sides to provide warmth and extra comfort with reversible cushions. It's also machine washable and has a non-slip base.
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