As a vast majority of the population ages, many are left behind as loved ones pass away, children move out of town and many seniors are left literally on their own. In recent years, therapy and companion dogs have become much more popular not only for the companionship they provide but also for the health benefits derived from spending time with these intuitive creatures. Some people prefer cats but dogs tend to be much more lovable as cats tend to be a bit too independent to be therapeutic.

Baby Boomers Reaching Retirement Age

Until millennials hit the big time, boomers were the biggest generation ever and at the moment all are between the ages of 52 and 70 years of age. Those born between 1946 and 1964 are, for the most part, at or close to retirement age and as mentioned above, may have lost their friends and family to old age, sickness or relocation.

A huge number of retirees do not want to enter retirement homes but are altogether too lonely at home, especially after the loss of a spouse. Companion dogs fill the void better than you can imagine. Those who live in senior communities also find they are often depressed and lonely and dogs are the most likely candidates for becoming a companion to fill those long, lonely hours.

Which Type of Dog Makes the Best Companion Dog

Anyone who is of advanced years may not want a very large dog that can be hard to handle. Even the best behaved dogs can have their moments, so for those who are elderly or those with mobility problems, a smaller dog may be the best solution. One of the most popular dogs today is a dachshund, perhaps because they are small enough to do well in apartments and they are extremely lovable.

When looking for a dachshund puppy, you can find those with long hair and those with short hair, but both have that distinctive long body with short legs. However, no matter where you live, you need to take time to inspect the breeder, check out their reputation and look at the kennels where the puppies are bred. You can buy a dachshund here, no matter where you live in the country, and travel arrangements can be made to get the puppy to your house.

Health Benefits You Can’t Imagine!

Not only are therapy dogs a wonderful remedy to loneliness, they are actually healthy to have around! Most people aren’t aware of the fact that the act of petting a dog lowers the blood pressure and so companion dogs are said to be ‘heart healthy.’ The act of petting a dog also prompts the release of endorphins that provide that calming effect and having a companion dog is proven to reduce pain without the need to take pharmaceuticals.

No matter what kind of dog you choose as a therapy or companion dog, once you have bonded with that four legged furbaby you will have a friend forever. There isn’t a creature on earth as loyal as a dog and although you might not understand what they are saying when they yip away, your dog will certainly understand you. Dogs read moods which means that happy or sad, excited or depressed, your new buddy will be there through thick and thin. In need of a friend? You’ll find none better than a companion dog and that’s a dog lover’s promise.