Emotions, Dog Ownership, and Health:. A Holistic Approach to Improve Emotional Health and Overall Well-Being
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Authors
Ballesteros, Elia
Issue Date
2013
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
The relationship between emotions and health is a subject that does not get much attention in the medical community, particularly within conventional health care. Current research supports the idea that emotional health influences overall health and vice versa. There is a need for alternatives to address and treat emotional health needs other than the typical prescription of pharmaceuticals and counseling sessions that are prevalent in mainstream medicine. The Dog
Ownership for Health model is an educational tool that health educators can use to inform clients about the relationship between emotions and health and how dog ownership can improve emotional health by the following: reducing negative emotions; increasing positive emotions; bonding, emotional awareness, and expression; stress reduction through presence and physical contact with a dog; physical influences that impact emotional health; and the increase in opportunity for exercise and outdoor activities. Since dog ownership is not for everybody, potential dog owners should consider basic obedience and discipline training and choose a dog most compatible with a person's lifestyle to maximize the emotional and overall health benefits of owning a dog. Future work in this area includes but is not limited to: educating dog owners on the ways dogs influence emotional health consistent With the components included in the Dog Ownership for Health model; encouraging healthcare providers and establishments to consider the use of dogs in medical facilities; and to advocate for medical coverage for individuals with emotional needs that can benefit from a service dog.