Why are Humans and Dogs so Good at Living Together?
Dog and human relationships go back thousands of years ago. The chemistry that they have built over the years has grown more as they continue to associate. The bond between a human and a dog, is much more stronger than any other animal, that is chemistry wise. But why is it that humans and dogs built that chemistry amongst each other so many years ago?
Domestic dogs originate from the wolves. The wolf pack has some intriguing similarities with humans that could tell us why they get along with humans so well. First of all, they are territorial. If they come attached to someone or something then they are going to protect it and keep it safe no matter the cost. Secondly, pack members tend to greet each other very enthusiastically if they have been separated for a said amount of time. Just like we would if we were separated from someone that we love and care about, we would greet them with a hug and joy. The social adaptations of dogs are so much like humans that they are able to live comfortably in the same environment without any problems. They are basically treated like humans are; they are served the best food, they are pampered, and they often sleep in the same bed as their owner’s do. There is a sense of equality when it comes to a human and dog relationship. If you or a loved one is searching for alcohol or drug rehab centers that allow dogs because you want treatment with your best friend call our helpline now.
The question is; why do people praise and love on such an opposite, alienated species? Well, it simply results in the emotional plane. Families do not see dogs as an alien, they tend to see them as one of their own. “According to John Archer (1) of the University of Central Lancashire, who has conducted a detailed study of dog-human relations from an evolutionary perspective, about 40% of owners identify their dog as a family member reflecting social compatibility between our two species.” (Nigel Barber, Ph.D.). Dogs are incredibly intelligent. They are very attentive and have a incredibly ability to tell what their owner is going to do based on their body language. Whether it be preparing a meal or getting ready to go for a walk, they are able to sense what is going to happen next. They use the direction of our gaze quite often, whether it be to locate hidden food or to watch for where our next location is going to be. Dogs are also very alert to the emotional state of a human. They can express concern when their owner is not at their best or even know when their owner is annoyed and can often tell what it is that they are doing to cause it. The ability to show love and affection unconditionally is what makes the dog a family member.
So everyone knows that humans domesticated dogs, but is it possible that dogs domesticated humans as well? Dogs were the first domestic animals that we developed a close association to. Domesticated dogs originated from wolves, but they have been separated from wolves for about 100,000 years. They have been the domesticated species, also known as man’s best friend, since humans started coming about. Which is when the homo sapiens were around in the beginning. Some people believe that our species has evolved faster than most due to the fact that we had created a bond with such a domestic species from the very beginning. We definitely have become domesticated from dogs from the beginning. They were domesticated before humans were and have helped become domesticated as well. Indeed, we have become more domesticated than they have, but that is only because they slowed down after we began to take care of them. They did not need the adaptations they needed before to survive because humans were doing it all for them. “The human-dog relationship amounts to a very long lasting symbiosis. Dogs acted as human’s alarm systems, trackers, and hunting aides, garbage disposal facilities, hot water bottles, and children’s guardians and playmates. Humans provided dogs with food and security. The relationship was stable over 100,000 years or so, and intensified in the Holocene into mutual domestication. Humans domesticated dogs and dogs domesticated humans.”(Nigel Barber, Ph.D.). The ability to sense danger and then attack on it has decreased since the beginning of domesticated dogs. Regions in their brain have shrinked majorly due to the fact that they have not been used in thousands of years. They did not have to rely on taking care of themselves for the longest time, that it has become something that they are unable to do anymore.
Finding a rehab that allows dogs could be the best decision you can make if you are looking to enter into a rehabilitation center for drugs or alcohol. Many guests that have gone through a detox and rehab with their dog have had less stress and anxiety by having their best friend with them. Rehabsthatallowpets.com can help you find drug rehab centers that allow dogs that is going to allow you or a loved one the best chance of success. Having your dog with you during recovery can boost the odds of long term success, giving you a healthy life for you.
After completing a detox and rehab program you and your dog will then have to find a sober living that allows pets. This might be tougher than you may think, but they are out their. Just make a list of the sober living homes in your city and start calling, there should be a few choices for you if you do your research.