How Have Pets Help Mental Health Statistics?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

In a survey of pet owners,

74% of pet owners reported mental health improvements from pet ownership

, and 75% of pet owners reported a friend’s or family member’s mental health has improved because of the pets in their lives.

How do pets benefit mental health?

“For people with a mental health condition, research has shown that time with pets

reduces anxiety levels more than other recreational activities

. Pets also provide a non-judgmental form of interaction that can motivate and encourage people, especially children.

Do pets help with depression statistics?

In a recent survey by the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute,

74% of pet owners said having a pet improved their mental health

. Studies back this up and show that activities with animals help with symptoms of depression.

How do cats help mental health?

According to one Australian study, cat owners do have better psychological health than people without pets. On questionnaires,

they claim to feel more happy, more confident, and less nervous, and to sleep, focus, and face problems in their lives better

.

Why dogs are the best pets statistics?

Owning a dog can help you live longer. A comprehensive review of studies published between 1950 and 2019 found that dog owners had a

lower risk of death

. Studies suggest that dog owners have lower blood pressure levels and improved responses to stress.

How do animals help with depression?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the company of a pet can help people who are living with depression.

Animals tend to offer unlimited affection and companionship, lift spirits and lower stress

. Companion animals can also counteract symptoms such as isolation, rumination and lethargy.

How can animals improve our physical and mental health?

Pets, especially dogs and cats, can

reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and even improve your cardiovascular health

. Caring for an animal can help children grow up more secure and active. Pets also provide valuable companionship for older adults.

Why do dogs help with depression?

Dogs can help with depression through a variety of health benefits.

Their closeness increases oxytocin production and levels of serotonin, which in turn decreases levels of stress and lower blood pressure

. It also increases positive emotions and can make us more trusting of others around us.

Can a dog help a teenager with depression?

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI),

playing with dogs can raise oxytocin levels, which decreases blood pressure and heart rate and lowers stress, anger and depression.

Are cats or dogs better for mental health?

According to one Australian study,

cat owners were happier, more confident, and generally psychologically healthier than those without pets

. And though most of these papers have focused on the advantages of companion animals, these benefits likely apply to visiting therapy cats, says Dennis.

Why are cats the best pets?


Cats are low maintenance

Compared to dogs, cats are a low maintenance pet. They don’t require formal training, they don’t need to be taken out multiple times a day, and they’re even able to take care of basic self-cleaning.

Can cats protect you?

While it might be hard to believe for some,

a cat is more than capable of defending you

. In fact, a cat can sometimes be almost as protective as a dog. However, it is unlikely a cat will resort to physical aggression unless it’s essential. While a cat’s natural response is to flee trouble, a cat can defend its owner.

How do pets benefit from humans?

Studies confirm that

dogs like contact with their human companions and they experience an increase of “feel-good” hormones

. Science also shows that dogs tend to follow the advice and example of their human companions for solving problems.

Do pets improve immune system?

In fact, for nearly 25 years, research has shown that living with pets provides certain health benefits. Pets help lower blood pressure and lessen anxiety.

They boost our immunity

. They can even help you get dates.

Why do pets make us happy?

Studies have shown that

even small interactions with dogs cause the human brain to produce oxytocin

, a hormone often referred to as the “cuddle chemical.” Oxytocin increases feelings of relaxation, trust, and empathy while reducing stress and anxiety.

How do pets help with anxiety?

The companionship of a pet can help to ease your anxiety.

boosting self-confidence

. Pets can be great listeners, offer unconditional love and won’t criticise you. This can help your self-confidence, especially if you feel isolated or misunderstood.

How do dogs help your physical health?

Dog owners have

lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure

than those without dogs, according to Harvard Health. These health benefits suggest that spending quality time with a dog may help improve overall heart health. Dog owners get more physical activity. “Dogs are the ultimate exercise buddy!

Do pets make you happier?

Pets lower stress and depression


Simply spending quality time with your dog or cat can help make you feel happier

, and there have been studies to prove this. According to research, social interaction with your dog increases the feel-good chemical oxytocin, which lifts your spirits.

How having a pet affects a child?

Children raised with pets show many benefits.

Developing positive feelings about pets can contribute to a child’s self-esteem and self-confidence

. Positive relationships with pets can aid in the development of trusting relationships with others.

What pets are good for depression?

  • Dogs: Man’s Best Friend. Where do we even begin? …
  • Cats: Friendly Felines. of the best pets for depression, cats are a close runner-up. …
  • Rabbits: Social Butterflies. …
  • Birds: Chatty Cathies. …
  • Hamsters: Helpful Rodents.
Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.