Stella’s Ride works with companies to build employee engagement through outings where employees are connected with rescue dogs who need help finding a home. By encouraging interaction between dogs and employees we create a meaningful opportunity to boost morale and allow both a much-needed break from their daily environment. Through outings to the park, Stella’s Ride fosters connections between humans and animals to enhance the wellbeing of both. Working together, rescue organizations benefit from increased exposure of their dogs while company employees are empowered with an opportunity to help homeless pets.
As of January 2020, more than 80 percent of large companies and 50 percent of small companies have implemented workplace wellness programs.
Owning a pet is linked to significantly lower heart rate and blood pressure in response to stress. In one study of cardiovascular reactivity to stress, those with pets had significantly lower resting baseline heart rates and blood pressure and faster recovery of these parameters to baseline after cessation of stress.
According to a HABRI survey of family physicians, 87% said their patients’ mood or outlook had improved as a result of pet ownership. Another study found that pets, through serving as a distraction from typical symptoms and encouraging activity, helped people cope with depression and other long-term mental health issues.
Pets can provide people with the kind of social support that can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. A survey commissioned by HABRI and Mars Petcare found that 85% of respondents (pet owners and non-pet owners) believe pet interaction can help reduce loneliness and 76% agree human-pet interactions can help address social isolation.
Research demonstrates that owning a dog can lead to lower rates of obesity and increased weekly exercise. One study analyzed data from the 2005 Michigan Behavioral Risk Factor Survey and found that dog walking was associated with a significant increase in walking activity and physical activity.
Several studies have demonstrated an association between pet ownership and a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases and heart-related health issues. Dog ownership has been associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease and a reduced risk of mortality.
