I think there is something important about the relationship between people and dogs.
I was thinking about it when I walked ours this morning. I got up at 7AM and walked down through the woods to the river. It had rained overnight for the first time in weeks, and there was that lovely scent you get in the air after a summer rainfall. I sat by the river listening to the sounds of the birds and the water. It was so peaceful. Before we had a dog, I would never have done this. It is almost as if dogs give you permission for activity that would otherwise seem weird, but is actually incredibly important.
I can relate to that. Having a bond with a dog made me look at all animals differently. My wife has epilepsy and if she has a seizure when I'm not there Syd comes to get me. Invaluable. We get up every morning and take Syd out first thing. It's a wonderful way to start the day. That early morning birdsong is enormously therapeutic. Many could cure their depression with this simple lifestyle change instead of popping harmful pills. Walking barefoot has many advantages too.