The Healing Power of Dogs: How Canine Companions Support Those with Chronic Illness and POTS

Dogs are a blessing to our lives, especially those dealing with POTS among other chronic illnesses.

Dogs can benefit individuals suffering from chronic illnesses in various ways. The key benefits include emotional support, mental health, social interaction, therapeutic benefits, and an enhanced quality of life.

5 Healing Powers of Dogs

Emotional support is essential when it comes to chronic illness. Dogs provide constant companionship, which can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation often experienced by those living with POTS. The presence of a dog can offer emotional stability, helping alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Dogs can significantly improve mental health through various mechanisms. Dogs provide unconditional love and acceptance, which can be a powerful antidote to feelings of loneliness and isolation, often experienced by those with chronic illnesses.   The presence of a dog can offer a constant source of emotional support, helping individuals cope with stress, anxiety, and depression.

Having routine and structure can benefit mental health when coping with chronic illness. Caring for a dog imposes a daily routine, which can bring structure to the life of someone with a chronic disease. This routine can include feeding, walking, and grooming the dog. Dogs give me a sense of purpose on my worst days, and my responsibility motivates me to be active enough to take care of them.

Dog ownership provides social interaction. Playing with a dog can trigger the release of endorphins and oxytocin, hormones that promote happiness and relaxation. Dogs can provide a welcome distraction from chronic pain and discomfort, shifting focus away from negative symptoms.

Dog ownership can lead to increased social interactions. Walking a dog can create opportunities to meet and interact with other people. Many communities have pet-related support groups, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Therapy or service dogs offer therapeutic benefits. Specially trained therapy dogs can assist with specific needs, provide physical support, be alert to medical issues, or offer therapeutic interactions in medical settings. Studies have shown that interacting with dogs can reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

Dogs provide patients with an enhanced quality of life. They bring joy and laughter into people's lives. Their unconditional love and loyalty can be profoundly comforting and uplifting.

My Best Friend

From my experience, I know dogs can play a crucial role in improving physical health, providing emotional support, encouraging social interactions, and enhancing overall quality of life.

Before being diagnosed with POTS I was active. I enjoyed traveling and spending time with family, but everything changed when I was diagnosed with POTS and fibromyalgia. The chronic illness left me fatigued, in constant pain, and struggled with extreme shortness of breath. My once-busy life became confined to the four walls of my bedroom. I was overcome with feelings of isolation.

I got a puppy from a local animal shelter. There were several dogs up for adoption but I had my eye on a small puppy whose tail wagged enthusiastically and there was an immediate connection. I adopted her and named her Riley.

Riley quickly became a central part of my life. She had an uncanny ability to sense when I was having a bad day. On days when I could barely get out of bed, Riley would lay with me, offering silent comfort. Her presence was a constant reminder I was not alone.

Riley encouraged me to move more. She needed fed and let outside, so I pushed myself. Riley not only helped me by forcing me to get out of bed, but the sunshine outside lifted my spirits. The fresh air and the simple act of watching Riley chase after a ball brought moments of joy into my otherwise challenging days.

Riley had a playful personality that often made me laugh. She was a dog's dog and would drink out of the toilet every chance she got. These moments of laughter were invaluable to me, helping to alleviate the emotional burden of my illness.

The bond between Riley and I grew stronger each day. Riley seemed to understand me in a way that no one else could. As months turned into years, my condition gradually improved. Riley had given me a sense of purpose and a reason to keep pushing forward, even on the toughest days.

Riley was the perfect dog. She was my motivator and my best friend. She gave me the drive to face my illness head-on. I began to reclaim my life little by little, setting new goals and embracing the future with slight hope and optimism, which was a big improvement.

Ultimately, Riley taught me the true meaning of unconditional love and companionship. Her presence transformed my darkest days into moments of light, proving that sometimes, the best medicine comes with four paws and a wagging tail.

The bond between humans and dogs is often a powerful source of comfort and healing. They have unconditional loyalty, and they provide faithful companionship, which is very much needed among us with POTS.

Man's Best Friend

The companionship and mutual understanding shared between people and their dogs contribute to the enduring popularity of the notion that a dog is "man's best friend." Dogs are known for their unconditional love. I'd encourage you to visit your local shelter because your best friend could be there waiting for you. Dogs don't judge or hold grudges for your physical limitations from chronic illness. They provide a constant source of acceptance and affection.

Note: Different chronic illnesses may require different levels of care and energy, so it's essential to consider these factors before deciding to bring a dog into one's life. Additionally, individuals with chronic illnesses should consult with healthcare professionals to ensure that having a dog is a suitable and manageable option for their specific situation.