Dr. Jaime L. Kurtz of James Madison University often greets new crowds of college students with a simple question, “What are your hobbies?” Sadly, there is usually a silent pause in the room. But, according to science, people with hobbies are happier, healthier, and have a stronger social network than those who tend to spend their free time thinking about work.
Likewise, research suggests (and every dog owner in America will tell you) that having a pet can enhance your overall quality of life. A dog will bring you up when you are down.
The pet / health connection
What is it about pets that improve our mental and physical health? A lot, actually. Pets help us remain active and increase our social connections. We establish routines with our animals, which brings order into our lives. For many, the simple act of petting a dog reduces stress and works as an instant mood booster. Wellness coach Elizabeth Scott reports that pets can affect our physical health, too. She explains that “people who own dogs or cats have lower blood pressure and fewer heart problems” than those without.
Hobbies good for mental health
When we take part in an activity that we enjoy, the brain rewards us with dopamines. This creates a feedback loop where engaging in our interests also makes us feel good. We’re doing what we like and being rewarded for it, so that hobbies make us happy.
Since hobbies and pets both make us feel good, it only makes sense to combine the two for a double dose of dopamine. There are a number of ways to do this, each with their own benefits and many with practical purposes.
Doggie DIY
Thanks to Pinterest, everyone is a craft diva. And there’s no shortage of DIY projects that can help you pamper your pup. Building a new dog bed, making homemade treats, or sewing your own seat cover are rewarding crafts that pull double duty by allowing you to make something with your bare hands to give to your pet.
Get outdoors
If you like to get up and go, be sure to enjoy the day with your dog. Dogs love to be active and enjoy new places and new faces. Some ideal activities include: hiking, boating, and even swimming are excellent options with your dog. Be sure to bring water, something for your dog to drink out of, and an appropriately-sized canine life jacket.
Take it to social media
If you love spending time with your dog, others will too. You can make an Instagram or Tik Tok account for your dog and set up some goofy photo sessions. It’ll be a chance to show off your skills sewing costumes, or doing voice overs. Use Instagram to document those daily walks in photos or short videos. TikTok has a library of music to add and it has its own in-app editing tool for the short videos.
YouTube is for longer videos that will require a bit more planning and a little more editing, but there’s free video editing software out there, so don’t be afraid to give it a shot. Maybe your dog is the next superhero, TV detective, or newscaster. If your channel catches on, you can even earn a little income.
You can also invest in affordable lighting for your videos, as well as stands that can help you hold your device steady while you attempt to film. Filming dogs takes patience, so remember to remain calm if your dog doesn’t cooperate all the time.
With a little creativity and a few minutes of free time, you – and your dog – can enjoy all the positive benefits of doing something just because. Try a hobby that keeps you and your dog happy.
Are you looking for tips to help you and your dog understand one another better? If so, check out the dog- and puppy-training tips at Dog Training Does Matter.