Photograph above
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Perhaps, suggests Judith Siegel, Professor of Public Health at the University of California in Los Angeles, pet ownership might provide a new form of low-cost health intervention. Prescribing a dog may be lifesaving.
Social Benefits of dogs
Secondly, there are huge benefits brought about by the social interaction that having a dog insists. The ownership of a dog forces the owner to adopt a new way of life, based more on social interaction. Dog ownership forces elderly people to adopt a set routine of being involved in social activities, such as communal walks, and involvement in dog organisations, such as Petsfortheelderly. Dog walking can often attract attention from fellow dog walkers leading to a reason for comfortable conversation. This is particularly important for some elderly people, as isolation can cause withdrawn individuals to not seek out conversation themselves. Communication itself is often easier when a dog is present for reassurance.
PAT dog who visits elderly care homes. taken at Crufts