The Science Behind the Magic of the Healing Power of Human-Animal Bonds
My decision to adopt Sloane, my dog, was a turning point, leading to a transformative journey of physical, mental, and emotional healing, ultimately shaping me into a more resilient and compassionate person.
Sloane is a sweet mix of Labrador, Heeler, and Springer Spaniel, but she looks mostly like a black lab. She has a little white patch on her chest that looks like a necklace and white socks on her back legs. Her big, brown eyes are so kind and gentle. She's strong, like a lab, but she doesn't like to fetch. Everyone says she's the sweetest, most polite puppy.
Sloane is more than just a pet; she's a little life coach. She whines like a tiny human when I'm glued to my phone or laptop, reminding me to unplug and appreciate the moment. She's the most patient pup I've ever met, happily waiting for a piece of chicken even if I disappear into another room after I tell her to wait. And she's a total sweetheart, always resting her chin on my lap for some quality cuddle time. But don't be fooled by her angelic face – when I'm overly attached to my phone at night, she becomes a determined paw-sitive force, trying to knock it out of my hands.
Sloane wakes me up early every day to go to the bathroom. I never liked mornings before, but now I'm a morning person. I walk her for 30 minutes twice daily. I love listening to the birds and seeing the trees I never noticed before. Being outside in the fresh air has calmed me – I feel less stressed. Research says walking outside is really good for you! I've met so many new people in my neighborhood because of her. Everyone knows me as Sloane's person. She loves getting treats and head scratches from the postman and all my neighbors.
However, my life before Sloane was very different.
Feeling lost and emotionally drained, I turned to the idea of getting a dog. According to the American Psychiatric Association, canine companionship could boost mental health, and as a lifelong dog lover, I was intrigued. While I'd always wanted a dog, I'd never raised one.
Studies had shown that interacting with dogs reduced anxiety and improved mood, and I was desperate for a change. After exploring my options, I decided to adopt because adopting a puppy meant I wasn't supporting the cruel world of dog breeding. The process was rigorous, but the chance to save a life made it worthwhile. Months of applications and waitlists later, I found myself face-to-face with a tiny, trembling puppy through Love of Labs.
She was so tiny and scared. I almost said no, but I couldn't leave her. Puppy life was hectic! She was always biting everything. She came to me after being spayed at eight weeks, and that led to some complications. I had to take her to the vet. It was scary, but she got better. She is a warrior, and that's why I chose her name.
At first, I couldn't think of a name, but then I remembered the song "Falls" by Odesza. The lyrics, "Everybody falls down, all the way down/ You just gotta hold on tight/ You gotta get up, gotta get up/ Gonna make it through this time," gave me hope. I wanted to keep fighting, just like the song said. Sloane means "warrior." She was a fighter after her surgery. She's my little fighter who constantly reminds me to keep fighting and never give up.
I am way happier with Sloane around. It is a lot of work, but I love it. I started exercising daily after I got her, so maybe it's not a coincidence that I felt better. I had to sleep downstairs for two months because she was too little for the stairs. I'd wake up every three hours to take her outside. But teaching her stuff was fun.
The vet said she could get fat quickly because of the lab in her. So, I had to walk her a lot and feed her good food. I wanted her to be healthy, so I gave her the best stuff. But I wasn't good to myself. I ate chips, chocolate, and ice cream all the time. I should have known better. Sloane taught me to take care of myself, just like I take care of her. Her lessons on self-care and well-being are ones we all need to learn and practice.
I was tired of feeling stressed all the time. Sloane helped, but I needed to do more for myself. I started learning about Ayurveda and living the Ayurvedic lifestyle. It was hard initially, but I wanted to be healthy for Sloane. I didn't want to let her down. I had to be strong for her. This whole new way of living changed me. I'm calmer now, and I'm nicer to everyone. I am more patient, and things that used to upset me don't anymore. It all started with wanting to be a better dog mom, and now I am also a Chopra Ayurvedic Health Instructor, and I don't think it would have been possible without her.
I've become a better person because of Sloane. She's always happy, no matter what. Every morning, she greets me with a tail wag that could power a small city. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious. She's taught me to find joy in the smallest things. It's impossible to be in a bad mood when you're surrounded by her pure happiness.
With Sloane by my side, I'm constantly growing and learning. She's more than just a pet; she's my inspiration to be the best version of myself, and her lessons can inspire you to be the best version of yourself, too.
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