Two hearts that beat as one. A new study performed in Australia shows that not only do both human and canine heart rates get lower when we’re together, but our heart rhythms actually synchronize.
Using heart rate monitors on three human subjects and their canine companions, researchers separated the pairs for a time, then reunited them, recording heart rate data all the while. The results? When reunited, humans and dogs showed immediate relaxation. Of course, we already knew that.
Pets provide companionship, protection, emotional support, and physical exercise, all of which are potentially beneficial to pet owners. This bond can be traced back 1200 years. – Pet Positives
While science has shown that humans benefit from their bond with a companion animal, the new data shows that the dog also experiences a relaxation benefit. Plus, now we know that our bond with our dogs is so strong, our hearts actually beat together.
The Hearts Aligned study is part of a larger campaign by Pedigree Australia called Pet Positives, which explores the many ways animals improve our quality of life.
Featured Image: © Peter Wilson | Dreamstime.com – Woman Holding a Husky
