Pets can bring real benefits to our overall wellbeing. Many people find that caring for a dog, a cat or another animal can help ease low mood and anxiety, support stress relief and be good for the heart.
Most pet owners feel the immediate joy of sharing their life with an animal. Yet many of us don’t realise how much the bond with a pet can support both body and mind. Only recently have studies begun to explore the science behind the human–animal bond.
Pets have evolved to tune in to our behaviour and emotions. Dogs, for example, can understand many of the words we use and are good at reading our tone of voice, body language and gestures. Like a good human friend, a devoted dog will look you in the eye to sense how you feel and try to understand what you’re thinking and feeling (and, of course, when the next walk or treat might be).
Pets, especially dogs and cats, can help ease stress, anxiety and low mood, soften loneliness, encourage exercise and play, and support cardiovascular wellbeing. Caring for an animal can help children grow up feeling safer and more active. Pets also offer valuable companionship for older adults. Perhaps most important, a pet can add real joy and unconditional love to your life.
Any pet can support your wellbeing
Although people with pets often report greater wellbeing than those without, the pet doesn’t have to be a dog or a cat.
A rabbit can be ideal if you’re allergic to other animals or have limited space but still want a furry friend to share your life and daily routine.
Birds can encourage social interaction and help keep the mind active as we age. Snakes, lizards and other reptiles can become unusual companions. Even watching fish in an aquarium can help ease muscle tension and lower the pulse.
Studies have suggested that: Pet owners may be less likely to experience low mood than those without pets.
People with pets have been found to have lower blood pressure in stressful situations than those without. One study found that when people with borderline hypertension adopted dogs from a shelter, their blood pressure dropped significantly within five months.
Playing with a dog, cat or other pet can support levels of serotonin and dopamine, which are linked to calm and relaxation.
Pet owners have been found to have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels (markers linked to heart health) than those without pets.
Research has suggested that heart patients who have pets may live longer than those who do not.
Pet owners over 65 have been found to make about 30% fewer visits to the doctor than those without pets.
One reason often cited for these effects is that pets meet a basic human need for touch.
Even people in prison have shown long-term changes in behaviour after interacting with animals, many experiencing mutual affection for the first time. Stroking, hugging or simply touching a beloved animal can help you calm down when you’re anxious or upset.
A pet’s companionship can also ease loneliness, and most dogs are a strong incentive for healthy exercise, which can boost mood and ease low spirits.
How pets can help you make healthy lifestyle changes
Making healthy lifestyle changes plays an important role in easing symptoms of low mood, anxiety, stress and trauma-related distress. Caring for a pet can support those changes. For example, walking, hiking or running with your dog are enjoyable ways to build healthy daily exercise into your routine.
Studies have suggested that dog owners are much more likely to meet daily exercise goals—and daily exercise is good for the animal too. It deepens your bond, helps address many behaviour issues in dogs and keeps your pet fit and well.
Pets offer companionship
Companionship can help support health and may even add years to life, while isolation and loneliness can worsen low mood. Caring for an animal can help you feel needed and wanted and take your mind off your problems, especially if you live alone. Many dog and cat owners talk to their pets; some use them to work through difficulties. And few things ease loneliness like coming home to a dog wagging its tail or a cat that purrs.
Pets can support our social life
Pets can be a great social bridge for their owners, helping you start and keep up new friendships. Dog owners often stop and chat on walks, hikes or at the dog park. Pet owners also meet new people in pet shops, clubs and training classes.
Their role in easing anxiety
A pet’s company can offer comfort, help ease anxiety and support confidence in people who find it hard to go out. Because pets tend to live in the moment—they don’t worry about yesterday or tomorrow—they can help you become more mindful and appreciate the joy of the present.
They add routine and structure to our day
Many pets, especially dogs, need a regular feeding and exercise schedule. Having a steady routine helps keep both the animal and the person calmer and more balanced. However you feel—low, anxious or stressed—one look from your pet and you may find yourself getting up to feed, exercise and care for them.
By adopting an animal from a shelter or rescue organisation you not only give an animal a home but often give them a new lease on life—and in return, beyond the many benefits they bring you, you gain a companion who can teach you the meaning of unconditional love.
For more on caring for your dog’s wellbeing, read our articles Recipes to Support Your Dog’s Digestive System and Natural Ways to Support Your Dog Against Parasites. For more on living in the moment and daily joy, see Happiness as an Absolute Goal.
Happy Life Team
