Social beings need daily companionship, be it through casual conversations with the barista at your local cafe or a fun phonecall on the weekend when you and your friends can’t get together. Did you know that dogs need similar fulfillment in their lives, too? Dog dating can be an easily neglected feature in your furry friends’ life when you fall into the routine habit of providing food, shelter and a daily walk to the park. However, just like us, companionship extends to more than just a strictly scheduled activity and an emotional lack can lead to mental and even physical health problems in your pet. Look below as I detail pet ownership in America and why you should look into arranging dog playdates!
Pet Owners In America
Over half of all American households have at least one pet and it doesn’t take an anthropologist to know the most popular kind (besides cats, of course!). A 2000 study by a Colorado-based animal hospital found that 75% of pet owners feel guilty about leaving their animals at home when they leave. The same survey also saw that 38% of pet owners would even call home during work in order to check in on their pets! When at least 4% of America’s 55 million dogs suffer from separation anxiety, it’s prudent to figure out ways to curb loneliness and depression in your furry friend.
Caring For Your Dog’s Health
Does your dog seem clingy more often than not? Do they whine or howl when you leave the house? Just like us, dogs are very social creatures and deal with similar emotions such as loneliness, jealousy and anxiety. Dogs can even become depressed and refuse to eat or drink, affecting their physical health and requiring medical intervention. An AAHA study in 2000 saw 44% of people acquiring pets did so primarily for companionship or assisting with mental or physical illness — how can you return the favor and help out your dog in turn?
Dog Dating Benefits
While we’re familiar with online dating sites for humans, it’s becoming increasingly popular to create similar websites for your dog! There’s been a 57% increase in the use of online dating sites to arrange playdates, walks and even breeding opportunities for dogs all over the country. Just 20 minutes of social interaction, be it with a dog walker or just hanging out at a dog park, can greatly improve your dog’s overall mood and physical health. With a wealth of match-ups and opportunities at your finger tips, look into setting aside some free time in your schedule and use online dog dating to improve your best friend’s quality of life!