Dog - Man's best friend?
For hundreds of years man and dog have coexisted in a harmony that seems to be a perfect match. From wild animals to hunting companions, through to guard dogs and finally to pets and even family members, the history of man and dog has been a bond growing stronger every year. With pet dogs in the celebrity limelight, how can we consider dog to be anything other than man’s best friend? Today, Animal Friends brings you our take on why we love our canine pals so much.
A ‘walkies’ through time
Man and dog have not stood side by side since the dawn of time; the well-known relationship between our two species has grown from a dependence on each other’s abilities through to recognition of the companionship we bring. In modern times we proudly show our dogs and win awards with them or keep them as loving family pets while they rely on us for food, shelter and love. Throughout the history of man and his faithful friend we have had some iconic dogs, showing the esteem we hold for them – these come in the form of Lassie, films such as Bolt and Cats versus Dogs where the main characters are depicted as heroic companions of man.
We see research that dogs help us live longer, reduce stress and health risks from certain disease and especially heart-warming are the tales of guide and care dogs who help those people unfortunately disabled in some way who rely on their dog to do all manner of day to day tasks they would otherwise be unable to complete. The guide dogs are faithful, hard-working, loving and very often save the lives of those they care for. With this in mind, how can we doubt the bond we have with these animals?
Obviously with the stereotypes of guard or attack dogs, many breeds have gained a reputation for being aggressive or unsuitable around children, however it is wise to remember that often this is not the case, and that dogs are just as different as people in terms of temperament. A dog that has been raised correctly in the right environment will act much better with children than a dog raised to protect property or within a working environment such as law enforcement.
As a dog owner, I am clearly biased towards seeing our canine companions as man’s best friend, but at Animal Friends we have a multitude of pet owners, so the opinion differs. Get in touch with us on Facebook and tell us who you believe man’s best friend is.
Animal Friends is a pet insurance company that donates to charity for every policy taken out with us. Get in touch through facebook or twitter, or give us a call on 0845 55 70 300 and ask how we can help your animal friend today.
