by Anne Ueberbach
Assistant Director/Counsellor

It is no secret that the companionship of a pet can be an invaluable source of solace and joy for most of us. Singles may keep pets to have someone to come home to at the end of a busy work day, couples may keep pets as a form to start a family, and families may keep bets to teach their children about responsibility. Regardless of why we have pets, studies have found multiple benefits they have on our physical and mental health. It is also worth mentioning that research into human-animal interactions is still relatively new and findings are not always conclusive or replicable. The effects pet have on our physical and mental health also depend on the type of pet we have as well as our engagement and connection to them. Someone who is extremely close to their dog will benefit a lot differently from owning a pet than someone who owns 10 fish that they do not engage with other than feeding them.

Potential Physical Health Benefits

Increased Physical Activity

Depending on what type of pet you own, your pet may automatically increase your daily physical activity. Be it daily walks with your dog, riding your horse, or chasing after your escaped cat – regular physical activity improves not only your fitness levels but also overall health.

Improved Heart Health

Studies have shown that pet owners have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which reduce the risk of heart diseases as compared to non-pet owners. The calming presence of a pet can help reduce stress and anxiety, which positively affects the cardiovascular system.

Stronger Immune System

Exposure to pets, especially at a young age, has been linked to a stronger immune system and reduced risk of allergies and asthma. Pets introduce a diverse array of bacteria and fur into our environment, which can help strengthen our immune response and build resistance to certain diseases.

Potential Psychological Health Benefits

Stress Reduction

Those with pets know how relaxing and soothing the simple act of petting an animal can be. When petting an animal, feel-good hormones serotonin, dopamine and oxytocin get released, which promote relaxation, reduced stress levels and promote a sense of calmness and contentment. The sound of a cat’s purr has also been found to produce similar effects.  

Emotional Support

The presences of a loyal, non-judgmental companion can provide comfort during challenging times and serve as a reliable source of emotional support. Especially for those living alone or struggling with social isolation, pets can provide companionship and emotional connection to fulfil their social needs.

Improved Mood and Happiness

Interacting with pets has been shown to elevate mood and increase feelings of happiness and contentment. Whether it's sharing a laugh over a playful antics or enjoying quiet moments of affection, the presence of a beloved pet brings joy and lightens the spirit.

Reduced Anxiety and Depression

Pets have a remarkable ability to soothe frayed nerves and ease symptoms of anxiety and depression. Their presence can provide a calming influence, distract from negative thoughts, and offer a sense of purpose and routine. Moreover, the responsibility of caring for a pet can instil a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem.

Improved Social Connection

Pets can serve as natural conversation starters and facilitate social interactions among their owners. Whether it is chatting with fellow dog owner at the park or bonding with other pet owners at puppy school, owning a pet can help forge new friendships and strengthen existing social connections.

Animals Helping People

Aside from the above mentioned physical and mental health benefits of pet ownership, professionally trained animals are widely used as therapy or service animals across homes, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, companies, airports, police force / military, providing crucial support to their owners and the wider community. Examples include airport security K9, horse riding therapy, eye seeing dog, and many more.

Important Considerations

Although pet ownership and companion animals can help people in many ways, it is important to not overstate the physical and mental health benefits pet ownership may bring, as it may create unrealistic expectations. Human health is complex and influenced by many factors. Whether pet ownership yields positive effects on your mental or physical health depends on a wide range of factors.

It is also important to truly understand what it means to own a pet before taking the step of adopting an animal companion. All pets require daily feeding, regular grooming, regular vet visits, potentially lots of attention (depending on the type of pet and their personality / personal needs) and frequent to daily exercise. Owning a pet thus becomes not only a huge financial responsibility but also a time consuming affair and emotional commitment.

If you are unsure whether pet ownership is the right step for you at this point in time, reach out to our team of counsellors and psychologists to find out what is best for you (and the potential pet).