Stress Relief, Emotional Support: Why Pets Make Us Healthier

When feeling overwhelmed, 58% of pet owners prefer spending time with their pets over partners, friends, or family,  reveals Mars' new global study, PAWS. Scientific research supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) further confirms that interacting with animals offers a wide range of psychological and physical health benefits.

PAWS highlights the strong connection between pet ownership and mental well-being. According to the study, 83% of respondents report a positive impact on their mental health from their pets. Specifically, 84% find comfort in their pets' presence, appreciating the non-verbal support they offer. Additionally, 77% say that talking to their pets is soothing, while 56% value the quiet companionship their pets provide during stressful moments.

Pets also contribute to a more balanced lifestyle. The study found that 78% of pet owners take breaks from their daily tasks by spending time with their pets, and 73% believe their pets help alleviate overthinking and encourage outdoor activity.

"While we love our pets, we often fail to realize just how much they give back to us," says Tammie King, Senior Research Manager, Waltham Petcare Science Institute. "Reframing daily pet interruptions as wellness reminders can serve as a powerful mental health tool," she adds.

Spending time with pets can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and reduce blood pressure, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). “The bond between humans and animals promotes the release of happiness hormones, including oxytocin, vasopressin, and endorphins,” notes NIH.

Furthermore, Evalinda Barrón, Director General, National Commission on Mental Health and Addictions (CONASAMA), emphasizes that pet ownership has been linked to a reduced risk of depression. "The comfort and sense of purpose pets provide can counteract sadness," she explains. Barrón notes that the daily care of pets adds structure to a person's life, creating a routine that contributes to overall well-being.

Research has demonstrated that pets have a particularly positive impact on individuals with specific health conditions. Studies have shown that children with ADHD improve their social behavior when reading to therapy dogs, while children with autism experience reduced anxiety when interacting with guinea pigs in classroom settings. Additionally, teens with Type 1 diabetes who care for pet fish exhibit more consistent management of their glucose levels.

“There is no one-size-fits-all solution,” explains Dr. Layla Esposito, Lead Researcher, NIH’s Human-Animal Interaction Research Program. “If your goal is stress reduction, watching fish may be helpful. For increased physical activity, a dog might be a better fit.”

Animals naturally embody principles such as mindfulness, attention, compassion, and awareness—qualities that make them invaluable companions for individuals coping with chronic illness, stress, or emotional pain. 

The Pets and People program, a pilot study conducted in Melbourne, Australia, demonstrates the potential of pet-assisted activities in alleviating loneliness and social isolation, issues particularly exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 18-week program engaged older adults and international university students, two groups deeply affected by the pandemic.

The program, which included interactions with both live and robotic pets, fostered intergenerational and intercultural social connections. Implemented in two aged care facilities, the study involved 30 older adults and 11 international students. Evaluations revealed significant reductions in loneliness and improvements in quality of life, further suggesting that animal-assisted activities can be a cost-effective strategy for aged care settings.