A Loyal Companion

Sierra Vista High School is very familiar with having a pet around campus, their very own school dog; Dood, positively impacts school daily. Having a pet in the household creates the same positive effects students experience in their interactions with Dood.

Mia De Jesus, a Sierra Vista High School sophomore, states, “I think that Dood provides the joy and delight that I get when I go home and see my dogs.” Jeffery Poirier, Principles of Health Science teacher and former trainer mentions, “I feel that for most of the students, it is a positive to have him around.”

Recent studies explore the human-animal bond scientifically. The National Institutes of Health conveys that pets can decrease stress levels and lower blood pressure, as well as, reduce feelings of loneliness and increase feelings of social support while boosting mood. Therapy dogs became a particularly excellent source of comfort and support for people. Occasionally, hospitals and nursing homes bring therapy dogs to minimize patients’ anxiety and stress. Dr. Ann Berger, a physician, and researcher at the NIH Clinical Center mentions, “Dogs are very present. If someone is struggling with something, they know how to sit there and be loving,”

According to the Help Guide, pets can also help improve a person’s lifestyle. Studies show that dog owners are more likely to reach their daily exercise requirements; taking a dog on a walk daily will not only help the owner but also help the dog. Daily walks connect the dog and owner, keep the dog healthy and eliminate behavior issues with the dog. The companionship each and every pet provides can reduce susceptibility to illness and possibly add years to a person’s life. Caring for an animal makes one feel needed and wanted, taking focus away from personal problems, easing anxiety, and building self-confidence.

Poirier’s two dogs Goliath and Gray positively impact his life by keeping his stress levels low. Poirier mentions, “They keep me happy, and that in turn lowers my stress level,” adding, “I love waking up and having them sitting at the foot of my bed every morning.  I love how they have different personalities and give you different looks depending on what they want.” Mia De Jesus’ favorite thing to do with her pets is to lie down and cuddle, stating, “just spending time with them and making it a priority.” De Jesus comments, “My pets have helped me in a positive way by always bringing joy into my life. Getting to spend time with them is irreplaceable and incomparable.”

Studies show that pets can even help adults with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, children, and children with learning disorders or other challenges. Although many considerations go into getting a pet, pets provide people with incomparable benefits; a man’s best friend, a loyal companion, and an irreplaceable bond.