If you are working from home, you may find it isolating, and it can lead to health and well-being issues. One of our clients works from home, on her own for the past six years, and she shares her story:
I started my own business six years ago, and it was the best thing l have ever done, however, in the beginning, it wasn't. After the first few months and winter started to set in, l started to become paranoid. I began to think all of my clients hated me – which was the complete opposite of the truth. But because l couldn't see them talk to them every day l thought they were all planning on getting rid of me.
On the other side of my thoughts, l knew this was ridiculous and untrue, and also knew l needed to do something about my state of mind and it could be my undoing. So l got a dog.
She is the best thing that ever happened to me, and she took my mind off me. There were some issues with toilet training. I now have floorboards thanks to her instead of carpet. There were a few behavioural issues which Bark Busters helped me with as she used to pull on the lead and no matter what l tried, this didn't stop. The barking and barking at the front door or at anything that walked by has now been resolved.
The benefits she has given me outweigh all of that. I used to have sore shoulders from sitting typing all day, she now comes into my office, goes under my desk and sticks her head between my legs wanting to play every couple of hours. So l step away to play with her and have a break.
Walking her has also opened me up to people who live in my suburb. I have made new friends with other people who have dogs, and we help each other out with dog minding and dog advice. We have coffee, walks and chats. I have even lost weight with all of the walking, and my mind is occupied with good thoughts. If it starts going into other places, l go and play with my dog.
Studies show that having a canine companion is linked to lowering blood pressure, reduced cholesterol, and decreased triglyceride levels, which contribute to better overall cardiovascular health and fewer heart attacks.
Just remember before you get a dog, you need to find the right breed that suits your personality, your home and your lifestyle. If you have never had a dog before some people recommend fostering a dog first to see how you go. Just remember we are always here to help you welcome a dog into your house. Life is better with a dog(s).