Blue Monday happens to be the ‘most depressing day of the year’ and occurs on the third Monday of every January.
Returning to work after the festive period, cold dark mornings and still a week away from payday all contribute to many of us feeling blue.
It’s been a tough time over the last 18 months. Government statistics show that the number of adults over the age of 18 suffering from psychological distress rose by almost a third following the first national lockdown in March 2020. This year Blue Monday falls onto the 17th of January, and that’s why leading pet insurer petGuard is encouraging all dog owners to give themselves and their beloved four-legged friends some much needed exercise. A recent Royal Veterinary College (RVC) study has shown it’s not just humans who may have piled on the pounds during the last 18 months of working from home.
petGuard, specialist pet insurers for cats and dogs for over 37 years, has taken this opportunity to explore the benefits of dog walking on the body and mind.
According to Mind, 1 in 4 people in England will experience a mental health problem of some kind each year. The NHS recommends at least two hours of exercise a week to relieve stress. Any form of exercise releases your ‘happy hormones’, which can help to stave off stress, depression, or anxiety. So regular strolls with your dog not only keep you both fit, but it’s good for your mental wellbeing too.
The RVC research revealed that over 7% of the UK’s dogs were recorded by vets as being overweight. While a few pounds may not necessarily harm a pooch, pet obesity is a serious problem leading to shortened lifespans. Much like in humans, pet obesity can cause arthritis, breathing problems, heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Whether you’re seeking to improve your mental or physical health, it’s clear that walking benefits both you and your dog.
Head of Marketing at petGuard, Alex Bennett said: “Most of us could benefit from a bit of exercise at the turn of the year and what better way to get moving than by taking our best friends along with us?”
To avoid the blues on this year’s Blue Monday, petGuard has put together a dog walking guide to keep you and your pet happy.
You can find out more here.
