It’s no coincidence that Dog Appreciation Month and Stress Awareness Month fall at the same time. After all, our dogs are some of the best stress-relievers out there! The pups who love us no matter what, who greet us every day with tail wags and big licks — they deserve extra belly rubs this month. Let’s be honest: they are more than just our pets; they’re our loyal companions, secret keepers, all-around mood boosters. Owning a dog can even help you live longer! Data shows that dog parents have a 24% risk reduction for death from any cause.

Loving our dogs helps reduce our stress. Studies show that petting a dog can lead to lower blood pressure, a decrease in the stress hormone cortisol, and an increase in the feel-good hormone oxytocin. They also provide companionship and unconditional love, positively impacting our overall well-being.

In addition to being great companions, dogs also help us stay active and healthy. Regular exercise is important for physical and mental health, and dogs require daily walks and playtime to keep them happy and healthy. Plus, the bonus of spending time in nature with our fur family can boost our mood and reduce stress.

Of course, we can’t forget that dogs are just plain adorable and entertaining. From their silly antics to their wagging tails and wet noses, they bring so much joy and laughter into our lives. Even on our most challenging days, our pups can bring a smile to our faces and remind us to enjoy the simple things in life.

Celebrate your dog and lower your stress at the same time — spend quality time with your pup, take them for a walk or a fun outing, or simply snuggle up on the couch. You can also donate to your local animal shelter or rescue organization to help other dogs in need find their home.