Dogs don't discriminate

Posted Wednesday 4 November 2009

There's an amusing and touching column in today's Guardian by Clare Allan, who was nominated for Mind Journalist of the Year 2009, about her dog's blindness to mental health stigma.

Though whether pets can improve mental health is still an object of discussion.

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4 Comments

• idaremyidea replied on 5 Nov 2009 at 10:44

  I haven't read the column ... however, my immediate response is the statement is a debate - ofcourse pets will improve mental health; the continuum that makes people ponder the diversity of thought is proactive & healthy within itself.

• Vickipper replied on 5 Nov 2009 at 14:44

  I have read the piece, worth checking out actually I like Clare Allan's apprach, and Elsie sounds like the kinda creature who would boost my mental wellbeing any day of the week!

• Lilliz replied on 9 Nov 2009 at 09:21

  Definitely true - my parents used to bring my two dogs to the childrens unit where I was being treated for depression, and not only would the dogs have a brilliant time but the 15 kids on the unit loved it too. One or two of the nursing staff weren't too keen tho! Dogs are good in particular because they are often a bit insecure too and like to be in a pack and stay close - there's something recognisable and comforting in a dog which stays close by. Plus, dogs have personalities and will show these to you which is great for people feeling isolated and having difficulties connecting with others.

• frazzled replied on 10 Nov 2009 at 09:18

  i just read the article and liked it. i hae been thinking about getting a dog and so far have just met with the negatives of looking after it from people who doen't realise how lonely and isolated i am. i would love to hear how dogs have changed peoples lives for the better.