Dogs Trust

Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity. Each year, we rehome between 11,000 abandoned dogs through our 22 rehoming centres across the UK and Ireland. We are proud to promise to never put a healthy dog down, and we are working towards the day when every dog has a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction.

Our Dog School prevents relinquishment by equipping the owners of more than 20,000 dogs with the tools to prevent unwanted behaviours from occurring. We equip owners with the skills to understand their pooch and enhance the bond with their dog through reward-based methods.

Through our Outreach projects, we help society’s most vulnerable; the Hope Project provides food and veterinary care to dogs owned by people in housing crisis across the UK, Freedom Project provides emergency foster care and support to dogs owned by victims of domestic violence.

Our world-leading research team conducts ground-breaking studies that push the boundaries of veterinary and canine behavioural science and drive change in the canine welfare sector.

Through our international work we are helping the dogs of today and tomorrow. We build the capacity of canine welfare NGOs across the globe and share our 130 years of experience with hundreds of charities internationally. We aim to eradicate Rabies by 2030 and we are proud to say that our international fight against rabies has achieved herd immunity in Bosomtwe.

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    Adopt a dog and help your family’s mental health

    Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years; during that time, they have become our closest companions. They provide us with love, loyalty, and support and can also play a valuable role in reducing our stress and anxiety.

    There are a number of ways in which dogs can help us relax and de-stress. One of the simplest ways is through physical contact. Petting a dog can release oxytocin, a calming and mood-boosting hormone. Studies have shown that petting a dog for just a few minutes can lower blood pressure and heart rate and reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

    Dogs can also help to reduce stress by providing companionship and social support. Spending time with a dog can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Dogs can also be a good source of emotional support, especially during difficult times. For example, one study found that people who interacted with dogs before a stressful test performed better than people who did not interact with dogs.

    Another way in which dogs can help to reduce stress is by encouraging us to be more active. Walking or exercising with your dog is a great way to reduce stress and improve your overall mood. Studies have shown that regular exercise can help reduce stress hormone levels and improve sleep quality.

    In addition to reducing stress, dogs can also help to reduce anxiety. For example, service dogs can be trained to help people with anxiety disorders to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. For example, a service dog might be trained to alert its owner to the onset of an anxiety attack or to provide physical comfort and support.

    Here are some specific examples of how dogs can help to reduce stress and anxiety in different people:

    • For people with PTSD: Therapy dogs can help people with PTSD to cope with their symptoms and improve their quality of life. For example, a therapy dog might be trained to accompany its owner to public places or to provide comfort and support during flashbacks.
    • For people with social anxiety: Dogs can help people with social anxiety to feel more comfortable and confident in social situations. For example, a dog might provide a distraction from anxious thoughts or help its owner to meet new people.
    • For students: Dogs can help students to reduce stress and anxiety related to school work and exams. For example, a dog might provide companionship and support during study sessions or help its owner to take breaks and relax.
    • For older adults: Dogs can help older adults to stay active and engaged and to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. For example, a dog might provide a reason to get outside and go for walks or help its owner socialise with others.

    If you are considering getting a dog to help reduce your stress and anxiety, be sure to do your research and choose a dog that is a good fit for your lifestyle and personality. It is also important to talk to your doctor to make sure that owning a dog is right for you.

    Here are some tips for getting the most out of your relationship with your dog and reducing stress and anxiety:

    • Spend time playing with and grooming your dog.
    • Teach your dog basic commands.
    • Take your dog for walks and to the park regularly.
    • Get your dog involved in activities that you both enjoy, such as hiking, swimming, or playing fetch.
    • Be patient and understanding with your dog. It takes time to build a strong bond.

    By following these tips, you can create a loving and supportive relationship with your dog that can help you reduce stress and anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

    Change a life today.
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    When cleaning your wardrobes, don’t throw items away – DONATE them to be reused!