They’re often called “man’s best friend”, and for good reason. Dog ownership can bring a whole host of health, social, and emotional benefits at any stage of life.
In retirement, dog ownership is especially beneficial. If you’ve been thinking of getting a dog when you finish working, read on to discover why this could be a great decision.
1. Bonding with your dog can reduce stress
Scientists have discovered that bonding with a dog or a cat causes your body to release the hormone oxytocin.
Oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone” or “cuddle hormone”, is thought to be responsible for helping mothers to bond with their newborn babies. It is also associated with the feelings of romantic love that you develop for your partner.
Oxytocin is known to reduce the physical symptoms of stress, such as high blood pressure. So, spending time playing with your dog can be an effective stress reliever at a time when you may be confronted with a lot of change in your life.
2. It can encourage more social interaction
Social interaction is a key part of maintaining your health and wellbeing, because humans are social creatures. As you get older, it can be difficult to make new friends, particularly if you were used to your work colleagues forming a significant part of your social life.
While a dog can’t replace those human social relationships, they can provide a helpful conversation starter or common interest with new friends. For example, you might meet fellow dog owners when you become a regular at the dog park, training classes, or local pet shop.
3. You’re more likely to stick to a regular routine
You may have found it a challenge to adjust to your new retired lifestyle without office hours to dictate your day. Owning a dog can be a helpful way to create a new routine, as you’ll need to feed and walk them every day.
Having a routine can help you to feel more productive, and also provides a sense of accomplishment if you’ve been able to complete some tasks early in the day.
4. You’ll stay more active
Depending on what breed of dog you own, you may need to exercise them regularly and for extended periods of time. Even if your dog doesn’t require extensive levels of exercise, every breed will benefit from a short daily walk.
In the same way, keeping yourself active by taking regular walks and playing with your dog at home or outdoors can be very beneficial for your health. You’ll increase your stamina, keep your heart healthy, and reduce your risk of developing illnesses such as Type 2 diabetes or dementia.
It’s not always easy to get moving by yourself, but a dog can provide that motivation.
5. You’ll always have a holiday companion
A dog can be a wonderful companion to go travelling with, if that’s something you enjoy. There are countless types of holidays that are suitable for dogs, whether you enjoy camping, spending time at the beach, or relaxing in a holiday cottage in the countryside.
If you have a small dog, you may even be able to take them in the cabin with you to fly abroad, provided they can remain in their carry case throughout the flight. There are also lots of dog-friendly accommodation options to choose from; even some hotels now accept dogs.
So, you could use your retirement to explore the country and the world with your four-legged friend.
Get in touch
If you’d like to know more about how we can help you to plan for your dream retirement – whether or not that includes owning a dog – please get in touch.
You can email us at financial@barwells-wealth.co.uk or call 01273 086 311.
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