The perfect digital detox is spending time with friendly dogs
Dog Cuddles are the Ultimate Escape from Digital Dependency
Initially the internet was perceived as an amazing escape from the humdrum of everyday life. However, after years of technological revolution, people are questioning their online habit and looking for real life solutions to escape digital dependency. In our experience, as the UK’s leading dog sitting service, we have found that cuddling and caring for a friendly dog could be the perfect solution to distract us from digital devices.
The facts
In media regulator Ofcom’s annual Communications Market Report in August 2018, a decade of digital dependency was highlighted. Survey data showed that, ‘one in five people spend more than 40 hours a week online’. British people are also ‘checking their smartphones every 12 minutes’.
These shocking statistics highlight that significant numbers of people are experiencing the negative effects of spending too much time online. The report said that some people feel that ‘they are always at work’ while 54% of people surveyed admitted that ‘connected devices interrupt face to face conversations with friends and family.’
How can dogs help?
Dogs have been proven to encourage us to exercise, get out and about more and generally improve our well-being. After all, who can resist those puppy dog eyes pleading for a walk? This has been documented by Deborah L. Wells of the School of Psychology, Queens University, Belfast, in ‘The Effects of Animals on Human Health and Well-Being’ which concluded:
“This particular companion animal can contribute to a significant degree to our well-being and quality of lives.”
With research showing that digital dependency is on the rise, dogs are the perfect distraction
Why Barking Mad dog sitting?
Work, family, travel and financial commitments mean that not everyone can be a dog owner but Barking Mad have a possible solution. Lee Dancy, Founder and MD, enthuses,
“We are currently seeking more dog sitting hosts to care for dogs whose owners are away. This is an ideal opportunity for retired people, home workers, families, or teaching professionals, to experience the joy and life enhancing benefits of canine companionship, at a time to suit them.
Cuddling and caring for a lovely dog provides real interaction and exercise. We witness visiting dogs transforming families’ leisure time. The dogs arrive with their own food, bedding, toys and treats, with all insurance, administration and travel taken care of by ourselves. There is no need to provide anything other than your time and affection and a loving home environment. If you are real dog lovers and have some free time, we would love to hear from you!”
You can visit our information page about becoming a Barking Mad host or call us on 015242 20202 to find out more.
Barking Mad’s dog sitter hosts enjoy companionship from visiting dogs
