Dogs Make You Happy!
Ben Fogle says his relationship with his dog has brought him many happy moments, including an introduction to his now wife, Marina.
The findings also reveal two thirds (67%) claim walking the dog is the best quality time they spend with their family – more than watching TV, eating dinner or even going on holiday together.
The research is supported by a study conducted by Mindlab International. Using monitoring equipment and stressor tests to compare the effect different relaxation techniques have on family members, the study proves the simple act of petting the family dog is the most effective method of lowering stress within families – beating other popular methods of relaxation such as reading and listening to music.
Those polled also identified many other benefits associated with owning a dog, including the sense of responsibility (54%) and care (41%) that owning a dog instills in young family members, as well as the role dogs play in getting families off the couch and outside being active (54%).
Eligible members of BEVA will be able to vote for their Council team until Monday, 17 August 2026. Members will have received an election email on 17 July.
