Author Kate Leaver shares how and why ‘good boys’ are good for humankind
They’re simple, loyal and said to cure anxiety, depression and loneliness. That’s the doggie message from author Kate Leaver, who has a canine passion and just released her soon-to-be-released book, Good Dog.
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Every dog owner believes their dog is the best in the world. We are all correct.
I think my stubborn, wonderful Shih tzu is the greatest animal who ever lived.
Sceptics will think me mad, but what if my love of dogs actually allows me to live a longer, better life than I would have otherwise?
We’ve had evidence for many years that dogs are good for human health.
They reduce our blood pressure, slow our heart rate and boost our immune system.
They belittle things like anxiety, depression and loneliness.
They coax us into regular physical activity.
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A 2019 study found dog owners have a 24 per cent lower risk of dying than their dog-less peers.
But it’s not just about science. Dogs are so good because they show us what it is to love and be loved.
We cherish our slobbery companions. Perhaps not right at the moment they vomit on us or destroy our favourite shoes, but most of the time.
Millions of people love dogs – and they know just how special it can be to have one, maybe two, perhaps five.
They are sweet creatures who deserve to be doted on, walked, snuggled and given treats.
“How good are dogs?” I say, regularly, to the people in my life.
“Have you met my dog Bert?
“Don’t you think he might be the best boy who ever lived?”
Dogs are the greatest creatures we know. Often kinder and more generous than us.
Often smarter, simpler and freer.
More endearing, more effusive and more affectionate than we sometimes know how to be.
We would all do well to emulate dogs, for their enthusiasm, optimism and courage.
They are loyal and they are good. They live in hope, whether it’s hoping for a treat, hoping for a walk or hoping for a pat.
Hope is one of our greatest states, as living creatures, and they’ve mastered it.
They so often make us the gentlest versions of ourselves, too, ready for a snuggle, or a play, or a kindness.
As we know, dogs actively make our lives better. They make us stronger, they make us healthier, they make us happier.
They change our lives, they improve our lives and yes, in some cases, they save our lives.
Long may we snuggle.
Kate Leaver is the author of Good Dog, a joyous and moving book about the profoundly healing qualities of dogs. For sale from April 20.