THE CANINE CONNECTION
Living Longer and Stronger Together
Life with a dog is full of joy, love, and companionship. But did you know that your furry friend might just be the key to a longer, healthier life for both of you? As research into longevity science continues to grow, one surprising discovery that has emerged is that the simple act of sharing your life with a dog can improve your health and extend your lifespan.

LONGEVITY: A SIMILAR CONNECTION
Humans and dogs share more in common than many people may realize, especially when it comes to aging. The growing field of longevity science is revealing that the bond between people and dogs goes beyond emotional support, it’s also about biological benefits. Dogs age similarly to us, so studying their life spans gives scientists valuable insights into human aging as well. Research shows that dog owners tend to live longer, recover faster from heart attacks, and even enjoy better brain health. One study even suggests that having a dog could reduce brain age by up to 15 years.
But the benefits don’t stop there. From encouraging daily exercise to providing emotional support, dogs naturally promote healthier lifestyles. Their boundless energy and need for routine walks keep owners physically active, while their unconditional love helps lower stress and anxiety, key factors in heart health and longevity. Given all these health perks, it’s no surprise that having a dog as your wellness partner can make a huge difference in both physical and mental fitness. But just as dogs enhance our lives, we owe it to them to ensure they stay healthy, too. That’s why prioritizing proper nutrition, regular exercise, and overall well-being for both you and your pup is essential.
NUTRITION: SUPPLEMENTATION IS KEY A healthy diet is essential for longevity for you and your canine companion. The right food and supplements can help both of you live healthier lives, deter age-related illnesses, and keep you feeling energized. We can’t always get all the nutrition we need from food. It’s even more difficult sometimes for pets to get the nutrition they need, especially if their diet consists mainly of kibble. Some supplements I recommend for pets may sound familiar because they are also beneficial for people. If you are just getting started on a supplement plan, here’s the top three nutrients I recommend:
1. Probiotics for Gut: The gut plays a role in your overall health and your dog’s, too. A balanced gut microbiome supports everything from digestion to immune function and even mental health. Probiotics are a great way to improve gut health for both you and your dog, reducing inflammation and boosting immunity. Make sure to choose a probiotic that’s formulated for your dog’s digestive system as human probiotics are great for us, they’re not suitable for dogs.
2. Fortetropin for Muscle: One powerful supplement that’s gaining attention in veterinarian and sports medicine circles is Fortetropin, a natural bioactive compound derived from raw fertilized egg yolk. This ingredient is also beneficial for humans as research has also shown that Fortetropin increases muscle protein synthesis by 18% in aging adults, even without adding exercise to their routines. When it comes to pets, studies show Fortetropin is a game-changer as it promotes muscle health, speeds up recovery after surgery, and helps delay muscle aging. For older dogs or those recovering from an injury, Fortetropin can help them regain their strength and vitality quickly. To get the benefits of Fortetropin look for this studied ingredient in MYOS PET for dogs and cats, and MYOS MD for humans.
3. Collagen for Joint and Skin: Collagen is the protein that keeps joints flexible and skinglowing for humans but also provides the same benefits for dogs. Regardless of if you are a dog or a human, our bodies produce less collagen, the older we get, which can lead to joint stiffness, reduced mobility, and a duller appearance.
For dogs, collagen also supports the skin, reducing irritation and dryness, which is especially important for senior pets. For people, it strengthens skin elasticity, reduces wrinkles, and supports joint health, which is important as you age.

EXERCISE: TAKING IT UP A NOTCH
Exercise is the most accessible and simplest ingredient to living a longer, healthier life. Partnering with your dog as your fitness buddy not only helps both of you stay fit but also deepens your bond, and boosts your mood, so you can enjoy a healthier life. Walks are a great start, but they are not enough to really move the longevity needle. Here are some of my go-to exercises that can take your routine to the next level:
• Water activities like swimming and paddleboarding are perfect low-impact exercises that build muscle strength and support joint health, making them perfect for dogs of all ages, especially seniors or those with arthritis. Swimming is gentle on the joints, while paddleboarding challenges your balance and strengthens your core, all while offering stress-relieving and cardiovascular benefits.
• “Doga” is a unique twist on your standard yoga class that engages your dog. Incorporate it after a walk by taking a few minutes to stretch and relax with your dog. It improves flexibility and reduces stress for both of you. Plus, stretching together strengthens your bond and promotes relaxation.
• “Doggy Ninja Warrior,” as I’ve coined it, is a fun and engaging training workout. Simply set up an agility course at home using household objects like cones and cushions. Then guide your dog through the course. This type of exercise builds physical strength, coordination, and mental focus. The teamwork involved enhances your relationship while improving cognitive function for both you and your pet.
Engaging in these activities together will help keep you and your dog strong, active, and connected.
AGE IS JUST A NUMBER: BE PROACTIVE IN PREVENTING DECLINE
Aging isn’t something anyone likes to think about, but the good news is that you can do something about it. By focusing on exercise, nutrition, and mental stimulation, both you and your canine companion can stay strong and active well into your golden years. If your dog seems to be slowing down, don’t just assume it’s due to aging. Pain, arthritis, or muscle weakness could be the cause, but with the right exercise and nutrition, these issues can often be improved. By staying consistent with supplements and proactive with exercise routines, you can help your furry friend stay mobile, happy, and healthy.
To learn more about Dr. Fishman, please visit strutanimal.com