It's a well-known fact that having a dog may help you feel good. But did you know it could offer you many other benefits too? I bet your ears just perked up, didn't they?
Having a furry, four-legged friend around can offer you more opportunities to be physically active—it can get you off the couch and out in the world, either for a walk or a Frisbee toss. Also, introducing a loyal and loving pet into your life to connect with and to care for can help you feel more emotionally balanced.
Now, I'm not saying you should run out right this moment and adopt a dog today. Owning a dog may not be right for everyone, including people with certain allergies, or for those faced with financial concerns. And there are additional points to consider for those living with RA, such as researching a breed that best fits your lifestyle. For example, walking a larger dog may place excess strain on your limbs and joints, as opposed to walking a smaller-framed dog.
Additionally, living with RA might occasionally require the help of others to handle the responsibilities that come with dog ownership, particularly during mornings when joints feel very stiff. It's important to understand that adopting a dog is no different from any other major decision that could affect you and your RA. Be sure to talk with your rheumatologist and your family before taking on the responsibility. But there can be a huge upside to having that wagging tail and wet nose around the house.
“Owning” a dog (those of us who already have dogs consider them to be more like family members than possessions) can offer you the constant companionship of a lifelong friend. This can help ease feelings of loneliness. Additionally, having a dog around can give you the perfect excuse to walk more regularly, and it may also create more opportunities to socialize. For example, taking your pup to the local dog park is a great way to meet new and interesting people—a worthwhile benefit, whether you are living with RA or not.
But if health, finances, and commitment concerns are all factors against dog adoption, or if your residence does not permit dogs, there are other options to consider. While fish or other small pets won't offer you the same opportunities to take walks and socialize as owning a dog might, they do require your attention, offering you a healthy diversion from the daily grind.
Also, many animal shelters are clamoring for people to pitch in and walk their dogs. One such program offered in Columbia, Missouri is called “Walk a Hound, Lose a Pound.” It pairs people and shelter dogs as walking partners. It's a win-win, benefiting both the people and the dogs they walk. And it's also a perfect alternative to adoption. Check for similar programs in your area.
So, if after careful consideration and discussion with your healthcare team and your family, you make the decision to adopt a dog, you'll be taking a step toward accepting a loyal and lasting friendship into your life. After all, your dog will need you and you will need your dog. That kind of two-way love can be a very profound and rewarding experience.
Okay, that's it for this week. My Rocky is awaiting his walk!
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Wellness Weekly Column
by Manette LaChance | RISE Fitness and Wellness Expert
> Manette's bio
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About This Column
Here you'll find advice on how to take a more comprehensive approach toward managing your rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Keep in mind, this column is intended to advise you on how to complement your treatment, not replace it. Please consult your doctor to determine what advice may be right for you.
Featured Article
Here you'll find advice on how to take a more comprehensive approach toward managing your rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Keep in mind, this column is intended to advise you on how to complement your treatment, not replace it. Please consult your doctor to determine what advice may be right for you.
Adopt a Dog and Take a Bite Out of RA
Apr 29, 2009
Managing Pain and Stress
