Mindy Dutka’s Post

View profile for Mindy Dutka, graphic

Bridging dog advocacy and brand marketing through story-driven dog photography.

Imagine a world where dog-walking programs in animal shelters or after-school programs involving dog play become the norm, providing children with access to the physical and emotional benefits of spending time with dogs. With two-thirds of children in the U.S. failing to meet national physical activity guidelines, it's clear that we need new and creative approaches to promote healthier lifestyles among our youth. That's where the human-dog bond comes into play. A preliminary study conducted by kinesiologists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst found that about 20% of children's daily physical activity comes from spending time in close proximity to the family dog. This groundbreaking research not only highlights dogs' potential to promote physical activity in kids but also underscores the profound impact of the human-dog bond on overall well-being. Led by exercise scientist Katie Potter, the UMass Behavioral Medicine Lab is spearheading efforts to better understand the relationship between children and their canine companions. By utilizing ActiGraph accelerometers equipped with Bluetooth technology, researchers can measure the amount of physical activity children engage in while in the presence of their dogs. But this study is just the beginning. Potter and her team are now embarking on a larger research project aimed at including a more diverse population to explore the full potential of the human-dog bond in promoting physical activity among children. So, what does this mean for shelter dogs and impact-driven individuals like us? It means that we have an incredible opportunity to leverage the power of the human-dog connection to create win-win-win scenarios for rescue animals, impact-driven individuals, and human health. By thinking bigger and embracing the transformative potential of the human-dog bond, we can create a brighter future for both animals and humans alike. 🐾 👉 Click and FOLLOW my LinkedIn hashtag #dogsimeet for more Dog Tales and brand marketing tips and advice. #dogs #animalwelfare #collaboration

  • No alternative text description for this image
Salomi Odendaal

Freelance Copywriter. Dog and Pet Industry. Newsletters, Emails, Blogs, and Articles.

5mo

A wonderful initiative that deserves our full support. The bond between children and dogs is a special one and benefits children and dogs. A child who is involved with caring for a dog can learn much from the experience. From being responsible for an animal, and exercising with it, to the right way to treat dogs and other animals. The dogs have an outlet for their boundless love and loyalty towards humans, and to learn about kindness. This is a win-win situation!

Lesley Osborn

Canine Consultant • Author • Dog Lover | Providing dog parents with practical solutions for their canine families. Writer of stories about the dogs of GREYSETT...like Tia! #TiaTalksBook • Sophie Talks is next

5mo

Mindy Dutka I've believed this is important for quite some time. A local news story covered the re painting of elementary school walls. To encourage a united feeling among a diverse class of children, the walls included flags from other nations. I understand that. If dogs were included, imagine the impact and 'bringing together' potential this would have. Kindness and responsibility towards dogs and other animals should begin with children.

Ken Parson

Open Innovation Product Developer | IP Owner | Proud US Marine Veteran | inventRight Alumni

5mo

Love this plan!! Cudo's

Hansa Roy

Geologist | Ex ONGC | Chairperson @ Bridging Rainbows Foundation

5mo

Wonderful study, wonderful vision for a beautiful tomorrow.

Jeanne Leckie

Managing Director at Leckie Group

5mo

My summer camp has a puppy program to learn to raise a puppy. I just read…. My dogs are attending weekly calls with talking dogs, cats, and other animals. They do all kinds of stuff to make things clear they can help. Hence my goal for a pet embassy that has multi-country support. Thanks for the suggestion

Like
Reply
Lynn Fischer

Experienced in Sales Management, Customer Relations, Insurance, Higher Education, Call Center Management

5mo

This is amazing and a win win for animals and people

Like
Reply
Brenda Keener

Caregiver at Dominica Sisters of Racine

5mo

Thanks for posting this. It sounds like a great initiative and I hope the project catches on!

Like
Reply
Martha W. Murphy

Author, Editor, Book Coach/Advisor, Developmental Editor

5mo

Fabulous share.

Wendy Hug

Recent recipient of a Masters Degree in Social Work - former intern of Carrollton Springs

5mo

I agree!

Like
Reply
See more comments

To view or add a comment, sign in

Explore topics