Gabby Comeau

My dog and I watching the sunset at the beach.

There is an unmatched loyalty and sense of belonging that a dog can bring to a family. Life can get heavy, but for most dog owners, being with their pet can make them feel weightless.

For centuries, humans have cherished their relationships with their canine companions. Human interactions with this animal have shown unconditional love and emotional commitment.

Dogs can boost mood, reduce anxiety, and help recognize loneliness. This type of bond lasts through physical and mental health struggles. A man’s best friend is the best part of life, even though it ends tragically.

The hormones in a canine’s brain are very similar to those in a human’s, which makes them notable for trust. For both parties, oxytocin is the love hormone, fostering an awareness of joy and calm.

There is so much depth that occurs during this physiological response. According to The Guardian, an indication by Scientist Editor Ian Sample states, “…dog owners experienced a surge of oxytocin when their pets gazed into their eyes, a dramatic effect that was mirrored in the animals themselves.” He continued, “the same hormone has been shown to spike in mothers’ brains when they look into their children’s eyes.”

This type of affection is contagious, displaying just how alike dogs and humans truly are. Both experience health improvements, internal and external. Not only are there physical benefits, but this connection also teaches responsibility and caring for loved ones.

Oakmont junior Lauren Bagley has a meaningful relationship with her dog. Bagley said, “When I get home from school and walk into my home, he is always there and so happy to see me. It makes me feel so appreciated.”

Dogs have played an important role in humans’ everyday lives for years. Whether it be a difficult day at school or a long day at work, a dog will always stay by your side to make the melancholy cloud hanging over you disappear.

Studies have also shown that a dog’s intelligence can detect health complications within a human’s body. According to an article on Roswell Park, “Dr. Stenzel notes that in case studies, dogs persistently sniffed, licked, and nipped at melanoma lesions on their owners’ skin.” Dogs have an incredible sense of smell, which helps them to alert humans when there is a chemical change in the environment or their body. This intelligence is in use even when a canine isn’t trained professionally.

Dogs hold power over the hearts of their owners; that’s what makes their love so significant. Winning the love of a dog is the biggest accomplishment, but it comes with an even greater loss.

I’ve had my dog, Myles, since I was seven years old. Myles is the first dog I feel devoted to. He is a Biewer Terrier Yorkie, weighing two pounds at nine years old.

Ever since I was young, I had always dreamed of having a dog. I watched every shooting star, broke every wishbone, and blew out every birthday candle in hopes of receiving a furry friend.

From the moment Myles entered my world, he became my best friend. He travels wherever I go, mentally and physically; he is always there for me. He taught me that dogs find a way to enter your heart unknowingly. Myles has been such a playful dog from a young age, and I still see that playfulness in him as he begins his senior years. Life is better with him by my side.

Even though dogs get older, they still offer some of the best years of companionship you can ask for. There’s a reason humans have protected these canines for centuries, and it’s not just their warm cuddles.