In praise of companion dogs
Dec 4, 2024 8:31:33 AM
“I have found that when you are deeply troubled, there are things you get from the silent devoted companionship of a dog that you can get from no other source”
Doris Day
Defining a companion dog can be a little tricky as the lines can be blurred between assistance dogs, therapy dogs and even working dogs. The function of a companion dog might encompass a little of all of those things but a true companion dog is one who provides a constant source of ‘friendship’ but isn’t trained or expected to perform specific tasks.
Most pet dogs are a companion at some level. The amount of dependency will vary according to each situation of course. For retired people or those who are less mobile, their dogs might be with them 100% of each day. For people working from home, their pets might be with them for a large proportion of their daily lives. There is no set amount of time spent together that defines the role of a companion dog.
It’s going beyond this basic description where the definition becomes less clear as some companion dogs also offer emotional support for specific conditions such as anxiety, PTSD and depression. Officially, these kinds of dogs, ESAs (Emotional Support Animals), are classified separately and undergo training to accredit their skills. They are also usually prescribed to their owners via a more formal arrangement. There’s no doubt though that there are also companion dogs who meet this kind of need through a naturally evolving relationship.
There are many instances where companion animals are used to help in a number of challenging situations. There is the legendary, quite incredible case of the horse, ‘Doctor Peyo’, who roams a hospital in Calais (with its owner) providing soothing experiences to end-of-life cancer patients. Courtrooms have been using the reassuring presence of dogs for over two decades now, allowing children and other vulnerable people who are facing difficult testimonies the comfort and support of a canine therapy dog.
Interestingly there are a growing number of organisations who befriend people living with loneliness who can request the regular company of visiting dogs without having to commit to dog ownership. There are also plenty of instances where dogs visit care and nursing homes to add some positivity to residents who might be missing their own pets or just enjoy the company of their furry visitors.
“Petting, scratching and cuddling a dog is as soothing to the mind and heart as deep meditation”
Dean Koontz
From a medical perspective, a dog can do amazing things! Stroking a dog is known to lower your heart rate - and the stress hormone cortisol in particular. The interaction between people and their dogs increases oxytocin which is a feel-good hormone. And what’s more, according to Hopkins Medicine, 84% of PTSD patients with a companion dog reported a significant decrease in symptoms with 40% able to decrease medication (see source below). This was reported in an article on the benefits of dog ownership entitled ‘The friend who keeps you young’.
It’s not all one way of course – the human touch soothes an anxious dog too and can be reassuring in return. This ‘comfort exchange’ helps to build the bonds and strengthen the relationship.
A good companion dog might offer some or all of the following:
- A reassuring, constant presence
- Affection and comfort
- A reason to walk and take regular exercise
- A sense of purpose and responsibility
- Something to take care of
- Something to chat to
- Company
- The feeling of being needed
- A sensory response to petting soft fur
- A feeling of protection and safety
- A reason to talk to other dog walkers
What should you look for in a companion dog?
There are no rules for choosing the perfect pet for your needs other than making sure you both work together harmoniously. The breed is largely unimportant but the connection is everything. Having a dog as a pet, companion and loyal friend is one of the most rewarding relationships of your life so you need to be sure of each other and know you can meet the animal’s needs.
References:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-friend-who-keeps-you-young
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