Older people who walk their dogs every day could have a longer and healthier life.
Older people who walk their dogs regularly are more likely to have healthier lives
Researchers from Trinity College Dublin found those who frequently stroll with their furry friends improve their mobility.
For two years, a group was split in half - people who walk their pooch four or more days per week and those who do not always go out with a dog - and it highlighted that owners of their beloved pet could get up from sitting down 14 per cent quicker and were 40 per cent less likely to take a tumble - with 20 per cent being less afraid of falling.
Professor Robert Briggs, consultant geriatrician at St James’s Hospital in Dublin and co-author of the research, said: "This study demonstrates the potential benefits that regular dog walking can confer on older people.
"They had significantly better mobility, reduced likelihood of falls and were less likely to develop a fear of falling.
"While this may be partly due to increased physical activity, it is also likely that increased social interaction, companionship and purpose derived from having a dog also plays an important role."