The Rise of Emotional Support Dogs: Why Our Furry Friends Are Truly Our Best Friends

A dog doesn't care if you're rich or poor, educated or illiterate, clever or dull. Give him your heart and he will give you his. — John Grogan

My fur-baby, Chico the chihuahua

One of the most wonderful trends I’ve noticed is how the world is becoming more accommodating for these precious creatures. Of course there's still the odd person who hates dogs, but let's not focus on that negativity. Restaurants are opening their doors to furry patrons, hotels and B&Bs are welcoming pets, and even some airlines are offering options for traveling with emotional support animals. And honestly? I love it. It’s becoming harder and harder to leave our pets behind, and seeing these changes fills my heart with so much joy.

Take my 9-year-old fur baby, Chico, for example. He’s the most adorable little chihuahua who has been a part of our family for nearly his entire life. Chico is not just my dog—he’s my light in the darkest moments, my comforting companion on those days when my chronic illness keeps me stuck in bed, and my joyful walking partner when I feel up to a stroll. On days when my husband isn’t around, Chico is right there by my side, offering me the kind of silent understanding that only a dog can give. And as much as I adore him, Chico has no shortage of opinions about me. He’s my nap buddy, my shadow, and my biggest (and sassiest) critic when I burst into song or dance around the house. His judgmental little looks could put Simon Cowell to shame—you’d swear he thinks he’s more talented than I am!

Chico doesn’t just bring joy to my life; he’s also been an incredible companion to my husband. Dogs have this incredible ability to connect with every member of the household in their own special way. They know when you’re happy, sad, or stressed, and they’ll be there for you no matter what. For someone living with a chronic illness like me, having a dog is truly life-changing. Here are five key benefits I’ve discovered:

1. Unconditional Love and Emotional Support

Dogs provide unwavering love and comfort, which can be especially important during tough days. When you’re battling a chronic illness or struggling mentally, their presence alone can make you feel less alone. Their loyalty and affection remind you that, no matter how hard things get, you always have someone in your corner.

2. Encouragement to Stay Active

Exercise is crucial, even when it feels like the hardest thing to do. Having a dog encourages you to move your body—whether it’s a short walk around the block or a trip to the park. These small steps can make a big difference for your mental and physical health.

3. A Sense of Routine and Purpose

Caring for a dog gives you a daily sense of purpose. Feeding them, walking them, and simply being there for them creates structure in your life, which can be incredibly grounding when dealing with chronic illness or mental health struggles.

4. Stress Reduction and Improved Mood

Spending time with a dog has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Their goofy antics, wagging tails, and warm cuddles release those feel-good endorphins that instantly boost your mood.

5. Companionship During Isolation

Chronic illness can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, especially when you’re unable to participate in social activities. Dogs are the ultimate companions, always ready to provide comfort, friendship, and a listening ear—yes, even when you’re talking to them like they’re human (which I do all the time with Chico).

Of course, the love and support a dog gives you comes with the responsibility of showing that love back. A dog isn’t just your everything—you’re their everything, too. It’s important to feed them, play with them, bathe them, walk with them, and yes, even have conversations with them. Explore nature together, cuddle on the couch, and make sure they feel just as loved as they make you feel.

I honestly don’t know what my life would be like if Chico weren’t around. One of my favorite things about my previous job was that I could bring him to the office with me. Now that I’m working from home for most of the week, being home with Chico is one of the biggest perks. But oh, how I would love to work remotely full-time again or find a job that allows me to bring Chico to work. That would be the dream! For now, though, we both have to endure the emotional rollercoaster of being apart twice a week when I leave for the office.

But even with those moments of separation, I know Chico and I have a bond that nothing can break. As I mentioned, he’s my little shadow, my rock, my sassiest critic, and my best friend. And in the words of John Grogan, the author of Marley & Me: Life and Love With the World's Worst Dog:

“A dog doesn't care if you're rich or poor, educated or illiterate, clever or dull. Give him your heart and he will give you his.”

This quote perfectly sums up what it means to have a dog, especially an emotional support dog. They don’t care about the external things; they care about you. They love you for who you are, flaws and all. And when you open your heart to them, they give you a kind of love that’s pure, healing, and life-changing.

So here’s to Chico and all the other furry companions out there who make our lives brighter, our burdens lighter, and our hearts fuller. Thank you for being our everything—and for letting us be yours.

Signed

#EndoWarriorH