Dogs & mental health: How can animals keep stress at bay?

The unconditional affection a dog can provide is an indescribable feeling. Sometimes a slobbery kiss or a welcoming “bark!” is something we have to look forward to. A fluffy cuddle can be what makes you feel safe and remind you that you are not alone in this world.

Students and decreased mental health are not an uncommon combination. Having a dog in college can have a big impact on mental health, along with physical health benefits.

Bailey Curry, a cell and molecular biology major, shared her and Millie’s story. Millie is a one-year-old Great Dane.

“Millie helps me feel safe at home ... my boyfriend works nights and doesn’t get home till around two,” Curry said. “Millie is someone to listen to me ramble, without judgment.”

Curry said Millie aids in dealing with stress from her extensive pre-medical courses. She is also just beginning her accelerated masters program. Curry said two of Millie’s greatest qualities are cuddling and listening.

“If she ever sees anyone crying, she will dive her head into their lap and lay there until the water-works have subsided,” Curry said. “She is my best friend, and I don’t know what I would do without her.”

Sydney Smith, starting her second bachelor’s degree in biology in summer 2018, shared a story about her one-year-old labrador/whippet mix, Ryder.

“After I graduated I realized I didn’t want to do psychology anymore. With Ryder coming into my life I realized that I want to be a vet, because of him I decided to go back to school.”

Before Smith rescued Ryder, Smith said, “I would work 6 a.m. to midnight multiple days a week, come home, drink a lot, and really kept to myself.”

When Ryder entered the picture, Smith said she cut back on work to spend more time with him. They now go on walks and hikes, she spends more time with friends and she cut back on drinking.

“I have someone to look forward to coming home to and somebody to take care of,” Smith said. “I feel a lot happier having him with me. I am less anxious and feel a lot better mentally. He goes everywhere with me.”

Susan Mirantin volunteers with Pet Therapy of the Ozarks, a not-for profit Missouri Corporation organized to provide emotional therapy. Pet Therapy of the Ozarks makes sure their pet therapy dogs stay certfied with prior Canine Good Citizenship certificates twice a year.

They have 80 teams that make visits to a variety of places including nursing homes, hospitals, schools and other facilities. They are based in Springfield, Missouri, and serve within a 50-mile radius. As a strict volunteer group, their association is funded through memberships dues and donor support.

“Research has shown that oxytocin (feeling of well-being) is released when interacting with dogs,” said Mirantin. “These feelings create a powerful mood boost. Lots of members love interacting with dogs. It elicits a positive response, and everyone is happy to see the dogs.”

Pet Therapy of the Ozarks will be visiting the Duane G. Meyer Library on May 14 from 2-4 p.m. to give students a stress relief outlet.

According to the Mental Health Foundation, the companionship that a pet offers is a great way to reduce anxiety and stress. Dogs encourage owners to exercise, increasing their physical health while also helping mentally.

“A pet can be a great source of comfort, companionship and motivation for their owners,” according to the Mental Health Foundation. “In many ways, pets can help us to live mentally healthier lives.”