Spending as little as 30 minutes a week with a dog can make you more successful, according to Rover.com and behavioural & media psychologist Jo Hemmings. Jo Hsaid: “Seeing the pleasure that a dog gets from us taking them for a walk, or even just from spending time with them, can increase our own sense of self-worth and self-esteem, which means that we feel more valued."
78% of UK dog owners have seen an increase in their self-esteem since caring for a dog. A further 59% said that the confidence boost extended to the workplace, and that their motivation levels had increased (79%), leading to top-dog work performances.
The research from Rover adds that canine-lovers feel like they are more mindful (84%) and less stressed (75%) since having a dog. Jo Hemmings says: “There is a strong connection between mindfulness and reduced cortisol levels, as well as an increase in both oxytocin and serotonin (our feel-good hormones), equipping us to approach life’s obstacles in a calmer, more positive manner”.
