Having A Dog During Pregnancy Has Its Benefits
Contributing to the shape of the expectant mother and maintaining an emotional balance are among the benefits of having a dog during the gestation period, according to studies.
We know that living with an animal can be a cause for concern during a process as delicate as pregnancy. In fact, it is possible that in some cases it may be contraindicated. However, given the necessary precautions, the company of these furry friends can be of great help.
How can a dog help us during pregnancy?
One of the main functions of the dog in people’s lives is to provide company, allow a responsibility for a living being and establish an emotional relationship. These functions count for a lot in pregnancy, as future mothers may experience different changes in their condition. Such changes can be balanced with the presence of canine friends.
For experts, a pet dog is usually very balanced. It is one more member of the family, whose coexistence allowed him to be healthy, obedient and respectful. So, if safety and hygiene standards are respected, there should be no problem with the presence of dogs during pregnancy.
In the same way, most likely due to the mother’s attachment to the dog, keeping in contact with him favors his emotional balance, as well as reducing the occurrence of stress and depression. The dog’s presence provides the companionship that is not always available at home; if during pregnancy we might be alone for a long time, the dog is a being with experience in this type of support.
Benefits of Having a Dog During Pregnancy
Scientists say that having a dog gives pregnant women the opportunity to keep their lives developing according to their habits. In this sense, it is very likely that the experience with the animal involves pleasant, comforting, stimulating and healthy activities.
Among the main benefits of the canine mascot during pregnancy are:
- Dogs can help with weight reduction, decrease obesity levels, promote physical exercise and improve the cardiovascular system, as they need to walk daily. Moderate physical activity during pregnancy helps prevent birth complications and reduces the chances of premature births.
- Dog companionship allows stress levels to subside. At the same time, it makes people feel happier because it stimulates the release of endorphins.
- Knowing that you have a dog at home gives you a sense of security, as it can alert you to the presence of people around and, in many cases, also indicate that there are unwanted animals in the home.
- Most dogs can help save lives. With a certain level of training, they are able to give advance warning in case of emergencies, reach objects, open doors or maintain an alert state.
- Letting children grow up with a pet helps them to develop healthier because they are exposed to more bacteria, so they become more immune-resistant.
Precautions for having a dog during pregnancy
In order for the benefits of living with a dog during the gestation period to be very effective, we need to be cautious during this experience. As we know, we are living in a delicate moment, which requires a series of care in different aspects.
In this regard, it is important to consider the following prevention measures.
- When we go out for a walk with the dogs, we must prevent them from taking us out of control as this can cause a fall. Other violent movements or typical play can also cause accidents.
- To prevent risks, it is recommended that pets are vaccinated against rabies, coronavirus and parvovirus, as well as dewormed; in addition to keeping hygiene up to date.
- It is not advisable for the pregnant woman to clean the dog’s waste. Thus, contact with the parasites present in the feces is avoided.
- It is preferable that the pregnant woman does not come into contact with the dog’s mouth. Likewise, you should avoid licking or sharing food with him, as there may be harmful bacteria in the saliva.
