Having a dog could help relieve stress in people feeling under pressure or having a hard time.
Seven Suphi, life coach and behavioural change specialist, explained the action of stroking an animal can be soothing, stating: “There’s absolute scientific evidence that having pets where you can do the petting has a substantial impact on stress, a positive impact.”
The comments come after new research from Groupon revealed 40 per cent of Brits feel they are currently stuck in a rut, while 50 per cent dream of a more exciting life.
Ms Suphi noted research has shown that petting an animal can help boost recovery rates when people fall ill, while owners who have an operation – and are not allergic to dogs – may find it beneficial to stroke and play with their pooch during their recovery.
She explained that while evidence has suggested such actions can help people in their bid to get better, there is uncertainty over whether or not such results would be achieved by simply watching a fish swim in its tank.