Pets are more than just companions — they offer a variety of physical and mental health benefits. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or another type of pet, having a furry friend can positively impact your overall well-being. As the number of pet owners continues to rise, particularly after the pandemic, more people are experiencing the joys and advantages of pet ownership.
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A recent study revealed that 23 million American households brought a pet into their lives during the pandemic, contributing to an overall pet ownership rate of 70% in the U.S., according to the American Pet Products Association’s 2021-2022 National Pet Owners Survey. So, what are the benefits of owning a pet?
Quick Fixes for Common Pet Ownership Health Benefits
6 Potential Health Benefits of Owning a Pet
While having a pet involves responsibility, research shows that the benefits of owning a pet can be significant. Although much of the research is observational, suggesting a link rather than a direct cause-and-effect relationship, the evidence supporting the positive effects of pets on human health is compelling. Here are six health benefits that may come with owning a pet.
1. Pets Promote Social Connectedness
One of the key health benefits of owning a pet is increased social interaction. If you have a dog, you’re likely familiar with the routine of walking them around the neighborhood. These walks often lead to spontaneous conversations with neighbors and other dog owners, contributing to a sense of community.
“Pets function as social icebreakers,” explains Nancy R. Gee, PhD, a professor of psychiatry and the Bill Balaban Chair in Human-Animal Interaction at Virginia Commonwealth University. “For many, pets serve as social capital in neighborhoods and communities.”
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In fact, a 2019 market research survey found that 54% of respondents said their pets helped them connect with others. Furthermore, walking a dog in public often leads to friendly glances and smiles from strangers, improving social interactions.
For introverts or people who may struggle to connect with others, pets can serve as a bridge to forming new social bonds. This increased social engagement can have a significant impact on a person’s mental well-being, especially for those who otherwise find it difficult to initiate conversations or build connections.
2. Pet Ownership Is Linked to Lower Blood Pressure
A growing body of research suggests that owning a pet may help reduce blood pressure, contributing to better heart health. Studies have shown that pet owners tend to have lower base heart rates and blood pressure compared to those without pets.
A study published in Hypertension in 2018 indicated that pet ownership was associated with lower blood pressure responses to mental stress.
While the presence of a pet doesn’t replace a healthy diet or lifestyle choices, it can play a supportive role in reducing heart disease risk. Pet owners experience smaller increases in heart rate and blood pressure during stressful situations, and these increases tend to return to normal levels more quickly than for people without pets.
As a result, pet ownership may be one of the many ways to help manage stress and improve cardiovascular health. The American Staffordshire Terrier’s coat type is short, sleek, and easy to maintain with regular brushing.
3. Dogs Can Help Boost Your Physical Activity
One of the most obvious health benefits of having a pet — particularly a dog — is the increase in physical activity. Dog owners are more likely to engage in regular exercise, thanks to the daily walks and playtime that dogs require.
According to Dr. Mark Fierstein, an internal medicine specialist at NYU Langone Health, “Many owners who would otherwise do little or no physical activity end up getting quite a bit of exercise simply by caring for, playing with, and walking their dogs.”
A 2019 study published in Scientific Reports found that dog owners were four times more likely to meet the recommended physical activity guidelines of 150 minutes per week compared to non-dog owners.
For example, a 30-minute walk five days a week is all it takes to improve your fitness levels. As a result, owning a dog can help individuals maintain a more active lifestyle, which is essential for overall health and well-being.
4. Pets May Help Prevent Loneliness
In a world where loneliness is becoming an increasing concern, pets provide invaluable companionship. Whether you live alone or with others, having a pet can reduce feelings of isolation. For those who work remotely or spend a lot of time at home, a pet can be a comforting presence, offering a sense of connection when social interactions are limited.
Research published in PLoS One in 2021 found that dog owners reported feeling less lonely during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to non-dog owners. The study also indicated that dog owners experienced more social support and fewer symptoms of depression.
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Furthermore, a 2019 report from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute found that 80% of pet owners felt their pets helped reduce loneliness.
Although the exact mechanisms aren’t fully understood, the companionship provided by pets is undeniably beneficial to mental health. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or another type of pet, their constant presence can alleviate feelings of loneliness and help combat social isolation.
5. Petting Your Four-Legged Friend Boosts Feel-Good Hormones
If you’ve ever pet your dog or cat and felt a wave of relaxation, you’re not alone. Studies suggest that petting your furry friend can actually help boost the production of feel-good hormones such as oxytocin, while also reducing levels of cortisol, a stress hormone.
A study published in Frontiers in Psychology in 2017 found that petting dogs was associated with increased oxytocin levels and decreased cortisol levels in participants.
This hormonal boost can have a profound impact on your mental health, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. Petting your dog or cat, or even simply spending time with them, can be an effective way to calm the mind and enhance emotional well-being.
6. Pets May Help Promote Mental Health
Beyond just helping to reduce stress, pets can have a lasting positive effect on your mental health. Pet ownership has been shown to foster emotional and social connections, which are key contributors to good mental health. In fact, research suggests that owning a pet can be particularly beneficial for people living with mental health conditions.
A review of 17 studies published in BMC Psychiatry in 2018 found that pet ownership could improve emotional stability, boost feelings of purpose, and even enhance coping mechanisms for individuals with mental health disorders.
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For instance, dog ownership has been shown to be particularly helpful for veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The companionship and structure provided by a pet can help individuals manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and emotional distress.
Moreover, pet ownership can give individuals a sense of purpose. The daily responsibility of caring for an animal — feeding them, walking them, and simply being there for them — can provide individuals with a sense of meaning, which is crucial for emotional well-being. In this way, pets not only improve physical health but also promote mental stability and happiness.
What Are the Benefits of Owning a Pet?
The question, “What are the benefits of owning a pet?” has been answered by countless studies and personal accounts from pet owners. Whether it’s promoting social interaction, lowering blood pressure, or simply offering companionship, pets bring undeniable benefits to our lives. For many, pets are more than just animals; they become family members that provide emotional support and contribute to better overall health.
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For those looking to improve their physical and mental health, adopting a pet could be a positive and rewarding choice. From boosting your mood and reducing stress to encouraging regular exercise, the health benefits of owning a pet are clear. While pets certainly require time, care, and attention, the rewards they bring are well worth the effort.
As we continue to learn more about the profound effects that pets can have on our health, one thing remains certain — our furry friends are more than just cute companions; they are essential partners in maintaining a healthy, happy lifestyle.
