The Beauty Battalion - Featuring Beauty In All Shapes & Sizes November 2017 | Page 34

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Top 10 Reasons to be Thankful for Your Dog

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It’s November — what better time to remind ourselves to be Thankful — for the comforts around us, our family, friends (both in the real world and online) and, of course, for the dogs we share our lives with. Thanksgiving is the time to reflect, count our blessings, and feel lucky for what we have. Hopefully you can give thanks for your health, your loved ones, your many achievements, and for our furry friends - for the unique love they provide, and the countless ways in which they enrich our lives. If you were to do a top 10 of why you are Thankful for your Dog/Pet - what would be on your list? Well, below is mine, and hope you agree.

Top 10 Reasons to be Thankful for your Dog

1. They make us better. Our pets improve us in so many ways. Studies show that petting an animal can reduce a person’s heart rate as well as their blood pressure, and animals keep us physically healthier overall because they keep us moving. Also, the endless joy they bring increases our mental health. I can say without a doubt - my fur kid Josie has done this for me.

2. They make us laugh. Dogs are always finding new ways to make us smile & chuckle! All breeds have their own personalities, their own expressions, and their own way of being funny. I can watch my dogs forever it seems when she gets a new toy to play with. Thank you to our four-legged friends for keeping us cracking up!

3. They keep us active. Because they need regular walks, play time, and socialization in order to keep both mentally and physically stimulated, our pets keep us active! Dogs make terrific running, walking, or hiking companions. Personally, Josie loves to hike and go to the park where we meet up with a ton of my new friends, and her fur buddies. So, high fives, or high paws to our pets for keeping us full of energy and for keeping us moving.

4. They challenge us. Some pets are easier than others. Some are a more natural fit for your lifestyle. All animals deserve a chance at a happy life. We know that there are pets who may need a little more work, effort, or learning on our part in order to thrive.

By Dawn McCarthy

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The Beauty Battalion Magazine